In "Maisie Dobbs" by Jacqueline Winspear, the metaphor of a knot in wood illustrates the importance of stories and experiences in shaping our lives. When a knot is removed, it leaves a void or a hole, prompting reflection on how to address that emptiness. This metaphor emphasizes the idea that every experience is meaningful, even the difficult ones.
Furthermore, the quote suggests that the absence left by a removed knot represents a personal responsibility. It challenges the reader, particularly Maisie, to consider how they will reconstruct or find purpose in the emptiness created by loss or change. Taking responsibility for the holes in our lives pushes us toward growth and understanding.