The keeping of (or discovery of) secrets is a major motif in Oathbringer. Shallan sets the tone for this motif’s development throughout the novel when she tells Adolin: “Sometimes secrets are important’” (150). Adolin and Shallan keep secrets about their actions, struggles with mental health, and their true feelings. Their relationship arc is a journey to trusting one another with their secrets. Dalinar struggles with the concept of secrets versus complete honesty in more than one way. As a politician and the man trying to unite Roshar and save it from Odium, Dalinar continuously makes missteps regarding which information he shares publicly, makes privy to just a few trusted people, or keeps to himself. He idealizes transparency as a leader, but his advisors warn him against sharing too much valuable information. They instead advise that he use information as a bargaining chip. Their approach seems wrong to him, but he also knows that other leaders may not work with him unless they feel they have something to gain.

On a personal level, Dalinar knows he visited the Nightwatcher and lost his memories of his wife and her death. This turned what was originally just a secret between a few trusted Alethi into a secret kept from him, as well.