The quote highlights the complexity of human relationships, emphasizing that interactions among people are rarely straightforward. It suggests that any attempt to describe or discuss human behavior inevitably involves simplifying or misrepresenting their true nature. This notion reflects the challenges faced when trying to capture the intricacies of interpersonal dynamics.

In Joyce Carol Oates' "We Were the Mulvaneys," this theme resonates throughout the narrative, as the characters navigate their connections, each carrying their unique histories and emotions. The book illustrates how these complexities often lead to misunderstandings, further complicating their lives and relationships, reinforcing the idea that human beings are multifaceted and difficult to fully understand.