In Hilary Mantel's "Bring Up the Bodies," the complexity of deception in communication is explored through the character of Wyatt, whose writing style is both intricate and elusive. The author portrays writing as a delicate craft that can convey hidden depths and alternative interpretations, suggesting that power dynamics and war strategies hinge on the art of deception. This highlights the duality of roles played by individuals, where one can be both a deceiver and a victim of deception, regardless of their position.

The narrative emphasizes that attempts to fully understand a subject steeped in deception can lead to misunderstandings, akin to grasping at something intangible. Mantel uses this theme to suggest that while statutes aim to clearly codify meaning, poetry and creative expression seek to transcend it, allowing for more layered interpretations. Thus, grappling with embellishments of language becomes a reminder of the inherent uncertainties in communication.