And he couldn't stand to be nothing, to know himself to be nothing. He needs to be listened to, he needs to be heard. He needs at least the illusion of being understood.
The quote emphasizes the deep human desire for recognition and understanding. It reflects a struggle with self-identity and the need for validation from others. The character feels a profound emptiness at the thought of being perceived as insignificant or unacknowledged, suggesting that one's sense of self-worth is closely tied to how others perceive and engage with them.
This need for acknowledgment reveals a fundamental psychological truth: humans are social beings who thrive on interaction and connection. The character’s insistence on being heard indicates that he seeks depth in relationships and craves a sense of belonging. The quote ultimately highlights the existential anxiety surrounding invisibility and the longing for meaningful connections in life.
