In "The Hotel New Hampshire" by John Irving, the narrative echoes the theme of entrapment, akin to a fairy tale where escape from one challenge leads to another. The metaphor of a forest reflects the ongoing struggles and complications faced by the characters, suggesting that overcoming obstacles is often more complex than it appears. Just when one believes they have moved past their troubles, new challenges arise, emphasizing a cycle of adversity and resilience.

This idea resonates with the notion that life's difficulties can be relentless, often keeping individuals in a seemingly perpetual state of struggle. The deceptive nature of believing one is free while still facing impending challenges highlights the unpredictability of life and the journey of self-discovery. Irving's narrative encourages readers to recognize the layers of obstacles that can exist even after apparent breakthroughs.