In Hilary Mantel's "Wolf Hall," the narrative explores the concept that the deceased continue to influence the living. This is encapsulated in the lawyers' saying, "Le mort saisit le vif," which suggests that when a ruler dies, their authority is instantly transferred to their successor without delay. The story reflects on how the power dynamics continue to operate seamlessly, emphasizing the unbroken connection between past and present leadership. The implications of this idea are profound, as it highlights how the legacies and decisions of former rulers shape the landscape for their successors. In Mantel's portrayal, the transient nature of life does not diminish the grip of the dead on the living, showcasing how history and memory continually interweave with current affairs and governance.

In Hilary Mantel's "Wolf Hall," the narrative explores the concept that the deceased continue to influence the living. This is encapsulated in the lawyers' saying, "Le mort saisit le vif," which suggests that when a ruler dies, their authority is instantly transferred to their successor without delay. The story reflects on how the power dynamics continue to operate seamlessly, emphasizing the unbroken connection between past and present leadership.

The implications of this idea are profound, as it highlights how the legacies and decisions of former rulers shape the landscape for their successors. In Mantel's portrayal, the transient nature of life does not diminish the grip of the dead on the living, showcasing how history and memory continually interweave with current affairs and governance.