"The very idea of carrying my memory into eternity devastated me, and I took refuge in atheism"

This quote by Taylor Caldwell speaks to the idea of mortality and the fear of death. The concept of bring one's memory into eternity is a daunting thought, and it is understandable why it would be overwhelming for Caldwell. By taking refuge in atheism, Caldwell is turning down the idea of an afterlife and the idea of eternity. This could be seen as a way of coping with the worry of death, as it enables Caldwell to accept the finality of death and the idea that life is finite. Atheism likewise permits Caldwell to focus on today and enjoy life without worrying about what follows. Ultimately, this quote speaks with the human fear of death and the requirement to discover a way to deal with it.