In the book "Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close" by Jonathan Safran Foer, a thought-provoking observation is made about the population of the present compared to the entirety of human history. The quote emphasizes that the number of people currently living surpasses the total number of individuals who have ever lived and died. This stark contrast highlights the increase in human population over time and challenges our understanding of existence and mortality.

The humor in the quote, particularly the notion of playing Hamlet without enough skulls, serves to amplify the absurdity of the situation. It invites readers to reflect on the weight of life, individuality, and the transient nature of human existence. Foer's work often explores themes of loss, memory, and the connections people forge, making this quote a fitting encapsulation of the tension between life and death in the human experience.