Meaning: This quote by author Laura Mullen is a reflection on the idea of ghosts and the unfinished business of the deceased, drawing a parallel to the subjective experience of the living. The comparison between the wandering spirits and the individual's own sense of unresolved matters in life invites contemplation on the nature of existence, memory, and the lingering presence of the past.

The concept of ghosts, often associated with the supernatural and the afterlife, has been a recurring theme in various cultures and literary works. They are believed to be the spirits of the departed who have not found peace and continue to roam the earthly realm. The notion of these spectral entities carrying with them the remnants of their unfinished business or unfulfilled desires adds a layer of poignancy to the idea of life and death. It suggests that even in death, the echoes of the past persist, influencing the present in subtle and profound ways.

In likening the experience of the living to that of the wandering ghosts, the quote captures a profound sense of existential longing and incompleteness. It speaks to the universal human condition of grappling with unresolved issues, unfulfilled aspirations, and lingering regrets. The idea that the departed may wander the night with things still undone in life resonates with the notion that the living also carry their own burdens of unfinished business, whether tangible or emotional.

The use of the term "subjective experience" in the quote is significant as it underscores the deeply personal and introspective nature of the comparison. It suggests that the feeling of being haunted by the past, much like a ghost, is a deeply individual and internalized sensation. The subjective experience of this life encompasses the complex interplay of memories, emotions, and personal narratives that shape an individual's perception of their own existence.

Furthermore, the quote alludes to the fluidity of time and the persistence of memory. The notion that the ghosts of the dead wander with things still undone in life implies a sense of timelessness and the enduring impact of past events on the present. Similarly, the subjective experience of this life encompasses the ways in which memory and emotion intertwine to shape one's understanding of the world and one's place within it.

In a broader context, the quote raises philosophical questions about the nature of existence and the interconnectedness of past, present, and future. It prompts contemplation on the cyclical nature of human experience, wherein the unresolved matters of the past continue to exert influence on the trajectory of one's life. This introspective exploration of the human condition resonates with themes of longing, nostalgia, and the haunting persistence of memory.

Ultimately, Laura Mullen's quote invites readers to contemplate the profound parallels between the wandering ghosts of the dead and the subjective experiences of the living. It encourages a deeper examination of the ways in which the past shapes and informs the present, and the universal struggle to reconcile the unfinished aspects of life. In doing so, the quote offers a poignant reflection on the intricacies of human existence and the enduring presence of the past in shaping individual consciousness.