In "Everything Is Illuminated" by Jonathan Safran Foer, the character Yankel engages in a nightly ritual of counting his daughter's ribs. This act reflects his deep-seated fear of losing her, as he worries that even a single rib could signify a loss or displacement. The counting symbolizes his obsessive need to ensure her safety and presence in his life, highlighting the bond between them as well as the insecurities that accompany it.

This tender yet anxious behavior encapsulates Yankel's protective instincts as a father. His actions can be interpreted as a metaphor for the fragility of their relationship, where every day poses potential threats. By counting her ribs, he not only reassures himself of her physical presence but also grapples with the profound fear of abandonment and change that underpins parental love.