In "Faithless" by Joyce Carol Oates, the narrative touches upon the profound desperation of a character named Gretel Nissenbaum. It suggests a deep emotional turmoil, hinting at her possible flight from her life, not towards her family, but as an act of escape. This indicates a struggle that may not be fully understood by those who have not faced similar feelings of despair.

The quote explores the complex nature of such a choice, emphasizing that the motivations behind Gretel’s actions stem from a place of deep personal need and anguish. The author reflects on the romantic notion of escape, contrasting it with the stark reality of loneliness and isolation that drives someone to flee, making the act of running away seem less romantic than tragic.