In the quote from Mark Helprin's "A Soldier of the Great War," the author suggests that memories can have a profound impact on individuals, potentially even more so than the actual events they recall. This points to the complexity of human experience, as memories can be imbued with emotion and significance that can alter their power over time.

Moreover, the idea implies that recollection can evoke both strength and vulnerability, showcasing how past experiences shape one's identity and perception of the world. This duality reinforces the themes of nostalgia and the weight of remembrance in the narrative, reflecting the complex nature of living with such vivid memories.