The past is so much safer, because whatever's in it has already happened. It can't be changed; so, in a way, there's nothing to dread.
In "The Heart Goes Last," Margaret Atwood reflects on the allure of the past, suggesting that it offers a sense of security and comfort. The events of the past are fixed and immutable, which means we do not have to face the uncertainty and anxiety that comes with the present or the future. This permanence in history allows us to feel a certain peace, as there are no surprises or fears that might emerge from what has already transpired.
The quote underscores the idea that while the past holds its own challenges, its static nature provides a refuge from the unpredictability of life. It emphasizes the human tendency to cling to familiar memories rather than confront the risks of change and the unknown. Atwood encourages readers to acknowledge this tendency, inviting a deeper understanding of how we interact with our own histories and the comfort we derive from them.
