"Stone Mattress: Nine Tales" by Margaret Atwood presents a collection of stories that explore the complexities of life, aging, and relationships. The characters navigate various personal struggles and revelations, providing readers with both depth and insight. Atwood's sharp prose captures the nuances of human experiences, often blending dark humor with poignant moments.

The quote, "there are some things that do not fare well in high definition," suggests that certain truths or memories may lose their clarity or impact when examined too closely. This theme resonates throughout the stories, illustrating how life’s rawness and imperfections can be overshadowed by the quest for clarity and perfection.