In the novel "The Big Rock Candy Mountain" by Wallace Stegner, the protagonist grapples with the weight of loss and memory. The quote reflects a deep internal struggle, suggesting that the main character has become a repository for grief, holding onto the memories of those he has lost. This burden transforms him, making him feel like a grave for not only Chet but also for a significant woman in his life. As he navigates his existence, the echoes of their lives resonate within him, unearthing unresolved emotions.

This idea of carrying one's dead relates to the broader theme of how the past influences the present. The image of being a grave symbolizes stagnation and sorrow, as the protagonist finds it challenging to move forward while entangled in his memories. Stegner's exploration of loss, nostalgia, and the weight of unfulfilled relationships leads the reader to reflect on how personal history shapes identity and the emotional cost of holding onto the past.