In Jodi Picoult's book "Vanishing Acts," the concept of memory is explored in a nuanced way. The author suggests that memory is not a permanent fixture in our minds, but rather a fluid element that can be brought to the forefront or fade away. This process of recalling memories is likened to a performance, where our experiences are presented for reflection and understanding.
Picoult highlights that memory's impermanence means it can sometimes disappear entirely. This absence of memory raises questions about identity and how people perceive their past. The notion that memory must take a break at times reinforces the complexity of human experience and the role that recollection plays in shaping who we are.