In "Speaker for the Dead" by Orson Scott Card, the narrative emphasizes the depth of understanding required to grasp a person's true essence and the significance of their life. It posits that revealing a life story necessitates not just accomplishments and failures, but an exploration of intentions, regrets, and joys. This notion highlights the complexity of human experiences, suggesting that the real narrative behind a person's existence often remains hidden from others.

The text suggests that upon death, what truly matters is not the surface-level recounting of events, but rather the profound, personal story of one's life. This personal narrative encompasses what individuals strive for, what they have achieved, and the emotional spectrum they experienced throughout their journeys. It emphasizes that the ultimate essence of life and death lies in these untold stories, making them invaluable and uniquely meaningful.