In "Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close," Jonathan Safran Foer explores the complexities of human behavior and emotion through the lens of intimate connections. He emphasizes how kissing symbolizes our humanity, differentiating us from other animals. This act represents deeper feelings such as love, vulnerability, and the need for connection, indicating that the frequency of these expressions showcases our human nature.

Foer’s quote prompts readers to reflect on the significance of kissing as a fundamental aspect of being human. It suggests that behaviors like blushing and laughing, alongside the act of kissing, encapsulate our shared experiences of joy, conflict, and spirituality. Ultimately, kissing is portrayed as a profound gesture that links us to one another, underlining our unique emotional landscape.