In Miriam Toews' "All My Puny Sorrows," the quote questions the cycle of violence and its absorption into our very beings. It suggests that violence doesn't simply vanish but instead becomes a part of our physical and emotional makeup, hinting at the deep-seated effects of trauma and conflict.

The quote invites reflection on how violence leaves lasting scars, influencing our thoughts, behaviors, and identities. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of internal and external violence, implying that without proper healing, its presence persistently resides within us, shaping our lives in profound ways.