In "The Killer Inside Me" by Jim Thompson, the author explores the complexities of memory and the human psyche. The quote, "There are things that have to be forgotten if you want to go on living," reflects a profound truth about the necessity of letting go of painful or traumatic experiences. It highlights the struggle individuals face between confronting their past and the need to move forward for their mental well-being.

This theme is revisited throughout the narrative, as characters grapple with their inner demons. The idea of forgetting as a means of survival speaks to the coping mechanisms people employ to deal with emotional scars, underscoring the delicate balance between memory and healing. Thompson’s work masterfully illustrates how the past can haunt us yet also suggests that liberation may come from the act of forgetting.