In the novel "A Mercy" by Toni Morrison, the quote emphasizes the vulnerability experienced by women, particularly in oppressive environments. It suggests that being female is inherently tied to suffering and trauma, where emotional wounds remain raw and unresolved. Even if some healing occurs, there is always a lingering pain beneath the surface, highlighting the ongoing struggle that women face.

The imagery of an "open wound" underlines the idea that women's experiences are marked by a continuous battle against societal injustices. The scars may imply survival, yet they also signify ongoing trauma and the difficulty of complete healing in a world that often fails to protect or value women, reinforcing the themes of vulnerability and resilience present in Morrison's work.