In Rebecca Goldstein's novel "Properties of Light," the notion of death is presented as an intrinsic part of human existence. Each person harbors their own mortality, which matures quietly within them, waiting to be acknowledged. This idea suggests that everyone possesses a unique relationship with death, regardless of their significance in the world. The metaphor of dark fruit illustrates how this awareness can eventually reveal itself, emphasizing the inevitability of death's emergence in our lives.

The author also highlights that seemingly ordinary individuals can unknowingly hold profound experiences of loss. Their lives may appear mundane, yet they carry the weight of significant endings, encapsulated within their personal journeys. As death "opens and spills out," it serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between life and mortality. Goldstein’s exploration encourages readers to confront this reality and reflect on their own existence and the deeper truths that accompany it.