In the quote by Wallace Stegner, the essence of belonging to a clan is captured. It highlights the deep ties formed through shared heritage, loyalties, and family secrets that create a strong bond among members. The experience of belonging extends beyond immediate families, encompassing a broader community where individuals can see a multitude of traits and histories represented, enriching their understanding of their lineage and environment.

Stegner emphasizes the importance of having a sense of place, a consistent refuge where one feels secure and connected. This place fosters a unique loyalty, evoking strong emotions tied to personal and collective memories, from the lively present to the solemn past. It suggests that belonging to such a community offers both comfort and a profound sense of identity, encompassing all life experiences from joy to grief.