In "The Transit of Venus," Shirley Hazzard explores the shared human experience of survival and the complexities of dealing with suffering. The protagonist begins to perceive others as fellow survivors, recognizing that while people often disguise their struggles, they all carry hidden burdens. This observation highlights the resilience found in humanity, as individuals manage their pain and heartache, often in silence.

Hazzard suggests that those who have faced significant adversity might not always exhibit noble behavior; however, their experiences contribute to a broader affirmation of life. Each person's journey, regardless of how they navigate their grief, enriches the collective narrative of existence, emphasizing both our individual and shared resilience in the face of hardship.