In "Negotiating with the Dead," Margaret Atwood explores the profound impact of writing and its permanence in the context of human expression and memory. The comparison of written text to evidence highlights how the words we commit to paper can hold significant weight and potentially be used against us in the future. This idea suggests an inherent vulnerability in sharing one's thoughts, as written words can be subject to scrutiny and misinterpretation.

Atwood emphasizes the dual nature of writing: it serves as a record of our thoughts and emotions while also posing risks associated with exposure. The quote captures the tension between the freedom of expression and the possible consequences of leaving a tangible mark on the world, reflecting on the responsibility that comes with the act of writing and the legacy it creates.