The quote highlights the concept of memory and its complexities. Remembering the past seems straightforward, as it is a natural human experience. However, the notion of remembering the future poses challenges, suggesting that if one could recall what is to come, they could avoid potential pitfalls and save themselves from difficulties.

This reflection by Joyce Carol Oates in "The Gravedigger's Daughter" delves into the human condition, emphasizing the irony in our perception of memory. It invites readers to contemplate the significance of past experiences while pondering the implications of foresight, ultimately illustrating the struggle between what is known and what is uncertain in life.