This quote from Cormac McCarthy's "All the Pretty Horses" expresses a profound piece of wisdom about dealing with one's troubles. The advice given by the narrator's father highlights the importance of facing challenges directly rather than allowing them to fester and consume one's thoughts. It suggests that one should confront issues instead of letting them "eat" away at them, indicating a need for proactive problem-solving.

The imagery of chewing on something that is causing distress conveys the futility of ignoring problems. Instead of grappling with the discomfort in a destructive way, the quote encourages individuals to seek resolution and clarity. Ultimately, it speaks to the larger theme of resilience and the human spirit's journey through adversity found throughout McCarthy's work.