In "The Handmaid's Tale," Margaret Atwood explores the passage of time and its impact on identity and existence. The quote metaphorically illustrates how time can erode one's sense of self, comparing a woman to sand that is easily washed away by tides. This suggests a struggle against the forces of change and the feelings of insignificance that can accompany it.

The imagery of sand signifies vulnerability and disposability, reflecting the main character's plight in a repressive society. Just as the sand is shaped and then swept away, individuals may find their lives and identities altered or lost under external pressures, highlighting the transient nature of life and the loss of agency.