Chapter 164 of All the Colors of the Dark opens with a somber scene at a cemetery in Cedar Valley, where a burial is taking place beside St. Raphael. Patch, attending the service, observes the misty hills and dreary skies, the weather contrasting with the persistent smoke rising from the John Deere factory in Pecaut. His daughter, Charlotte, dressed in a navy dress, maintains a composed demeanor, starkly different from the mourners around her who grieve the loss of Misty. Patch reflects on the activities he once shared with Charlotte and contemplates moments like fishing at Clear Spring Lake as they both try to navigate their grief. The scene reveals the contrasts in how different people cope with loss and the weight of responsibility Patch feels in guiding Charlotte through such a difficult time. The harsh realities of life and death are further intensified by the setting, where nature and industry seem at odds with each other, mirroring the internal conflict Patch faces.

As Patch stands among the mourners, he is keenly aware of Charlotte’s curious nature, which evokes memories of his own tumultuous past. The service reaches its emotional peak when Misty’s mother cries out as the polished casket is lowered into the ground, a raw display of grief that affects everyone in attendance. In contrast, Charlotte, with her innocence, offers a simple yet poignant sentiment: “You don’t cry because it’s over, you smile that it happened.” Patch, however, struggles to find comfort in her words, as the depth of his own sorrow clouds his ability to grasp the hopeful message she offers. The profound sadness of the day lingers, as the grief experienced by those around him reminds Patch of the fragile nature of life, and the difficulty in finding peace even when surrounded by loved ones who attempt to offer solace. The emotional disconnect between Charlotte’s hopeful perspective and Patch’s internal anguish further highlights the struggle for closure that he faces.

After the service, Patch approaches Chief Nix, who has recently suffered a stroke and is coping with his own loss. Their conversation unveils a shared history between the two men, one built on mutual understanding of the trials that life has thrown at them. Nix expresses concern for Patch’s well-being and acknowledges his ongoing search for answers about his past, an investigation that has left Patch restless and conflicted. The two men reflect on life-changing events, considering how they shape a person’s sense of self and how difficult it is to move forward when one is anchored to the past. Patch recalls the day of Misty’s tragedy, the moment that marked a dramatic shift in his life, forever altering his perception of the world and his place within it. This reflection serves as a reminder of the profound impact such moments can have, and the internal struggle that follows when seeking meaning in the aftermath of trauma.

The conversation between Patch and Nix evolves into a philosophical discourse on humanity’s duality, examining the presence of both good and evil within individuals. Nix offers insights into the complexities of life, suggesting that simplicity and beauty can still be found amidst chaos and turmoil. Their talk touches on places like Cody, Wyoming, representing a longing for peace and clarity, a stark contrast to the confusion and suffering that dominate their current lives. Nix encourages Patch to take the time he needs with Charlotte, advising him to pause his search for answers and focus on the present moment. In doing so, he offers support and understanding, reinforcing the idea that healing requires patience and the acceptance of love and connection as part of the journey. Their exchange highlights the significance of relationships in navigating grief and the importance of taking time for the people who matter most.

In the midst of overwhelming grief and reflection, Patch finds solace in his bond with Charlotte and the support of those around him. The chapter underscores the theme of healing, suggesting that while the past shapes the individuals involved, it is possible to move toward a future where hope and connection can still thrive. As Patch and Nix continue their dialogue, the emotional weight of the past is acknowledged, but there is a quiet recognition that the road ahead, though challenging, holds the potential for growth and understanding. The chapter closes with a sense of quiet resolution, as the characters come to terms with their losses, each finding their own way to heal while acknowledging the complexity of their emotional journeys. Through this connection, the chapter paints a picture of both despair and hope, showing how the passage of time can offer a path to peace even in the darkest of moments.