In "Wolf Hall," the protagonist faces the profound challenge of dealing with loss. Each awakening brings a painful reminder of the absence of a significant person in his life, highlighting the emotional toll that such loss takes. This repetitive experience of grief underscores his struggle to navigate a world that feels incomplete without her presence.

The quote encapsulates the journey of coming to terms with grief, emphasizing that the process is not linear. Each day requires him to confront the void left by her absence, suggesting that healing is a continuous and often daunting task. The emotional weight of such reminders illustrates the deep connections we form and the impact of their loss on our daily lives.