In "Dragonfly in Amber" by Diana Gabaldon, the quote reflects a deep sense of internal struggle. The speaker conveys how silence amplifies their inner turmoil, suggesting that suppressing emotions can lead to physical and mental decay, symbolized by "my bones waxed old." This illustrates the heavy toll of unexpressed feelings over time, resulting in a quiet, ongoing torment that weighs heavily on the soul.
The imagery in the quote emphasizes the conflict between the desire to release one’s pain through expression and the choice to remain silent. The metaphor of the bones aging reveals how unresolved emotions can burden a person, leading to a sense of fatigue and despair. Gabaldon captures the essence of human experience where silence can become a heavy burden, ultimately highlighting the importance of sharing one’s feelings to alleviate suffering.