The quote from Hilary Mantel's "Bring Up the Bodies" underscores the interplay between power and deception, suggesting that both realms operate under similar principles. It highlights the manipulative nature of politics and warfare, where individuals engage in deceit as a means to achieve their goals. This notion reveals the complexities involved in navigating relationships, whether in diplomacy or personal ambitions.

Furthermore, the statement implies that deception is an inevitable part of human interactions. Regardless of one's position, whether in a courtly setting or in personal pursuits, individuals are both perpetrators and victims of deception. This cyclical nature of trust and betrayal reflects the moral ambiguities inherent in the struggle for power, ultimately painting a stark picture of human motives and the lengths people will go to in order to secure their interests.