What good is truth, at midnight, in the dark, when the wind is roaring like a bear in the chimney?

What good is truth, at midnight, in the dark, when the wind is roaring like a bear in the chimney?

In the world of Diane Setterfield, truth is a powerful force that can illuminate even the darkest of nights. In her novels, such as "The Thirteenth Tale" and "Once Upon a River," Setterfield explores the complexities of truth and how it can shape our lives in unexpected ways. The quote, "What good is truth, at midnight, in the dark, when the wind is roaring like a bear in the chimney?" encapsulates the idea that truth can be a daunting and unsettling presence, especially when faced in moments of darkness and uncertainty.

In Setterfield's works, truth often serves as a catalyst for change and transformation. It has the power to reveal hidden secrets, unravel mysteries, and ultimately bring about resolution and healing. However, the journey to uncovering the truth is not always easy or straightforward. It can be a tumultuous and unsettling process, much like the howling wind in the dead of night. The darkness and uncertainty that accompany the search for truth can be overwhelming, causing fear and doubt to creep in.

Despite the challenges that come with seeking the truth, Setterfield's characters often find that it is ultimately worth the struggle. The truth may be harsh and unforgiving, but it also has the potential to bring about clarity and understanding. In the darkness of night, when all seems lost, the truth can be a guiding light that leads the way out of the shadows.

In "The Thirteenth Tale," for example, the protagonist Margaret Lea is drawn into a web of family secrets and lies that have haunted her for years. As she delves deeper into the past, she uncovers the truth behind her own identity and the mysterious Vida Winter. The truth may be painful and unsettling, but it ultimately sets Margaret free from the burden of her past and allows her to move forward with a newfound sense of purpose and clarity.