Importance of stories

The stories in this case refer to those written about the Old Ones, as well as referring to Briony's skill and talent as a writer. In a greater sense they represent the wisdom and knowledge of those older, something that will be lost with their death. This is symbolized by the stories that Briony writes as she comes to understand that what she does for them not only pleases them but also supports her society and helps it to continue to grow towards the future, even as the future tries to stop this from happening.