In Orson Scott Card's "Xenocide," the notion of secrets and truth plays a significant role. The quote suggests that once a secret is known, it can never be truly forgotten or erased. Instead, to deal with the impact of that knowledge, individuals may choose to mask the truth with falsehoods. This speaks to the complexity of human experience and the lengths to which one might go to protect their innermost truths or maintain a façade.

This concept also reflects broader themes of deceit and identity. Replacing a known secret with a lie can indicate an internal struggle with authenticity and the fear of vulnerability. It raises questions about the nature of truth and how easily it can be distorted to manage relationships and social perceptions. Overall, Card encourages readers to contemplate the moral implications of concealing truth with deception.