The quote reflects a profound sense of responsibility and paradox. The speaker acknowledges having broken a rule, yet they also assert their role in establishing the very rule that caused suffering. This duality highlights the complexity of personal choices and the consequences they bear on others. It suggests an internal conflict where the maker of rules grapples with guilt over their impact.

In the context of the book "Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close," this sentiment emphasizes themes of grief and personal loss. The characters navigate their pain and struggles, often shaped by the rules and expectations they create or encounter. The quote encapsulates a central tension in human relationships: the interplay between authority, responsibility, and the emotional turmoil that emerges when those dynamics are tested.