In "The Devil's Arithmetic," author Jane Yolen emphasizes the profound connection we have with our past and the importance of remembering those who came before us. Each individual carries stories and experiences that shape who they are, highlighting a brutal truth about life’s fragility. Despite this, the author underscores the resilience of being alive, where every breath contributes to the continuity of memory and heritage.

The message draws attention to the idea that those who have passed remain present within us through memory. This assertion serves as a comforting reminder that as long as we live, we hold the stories and legacies of those lost, enabling us to honor their existence by keeping their memories alive in our hearts and minds.