The quote from Jonathan Safran Foer's "Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close" expresses deep regret about the lessons learned too late in life. The speaker reflects on how valuable experiences often come at a high cost, specifically, the loss of a life. This sentiment speaks to the universal desire for hindsight and the wish to alter past decisions once the consequences have been felt.

This longing for a second chance highlights the complexity of living and the often painful journey toward self-understanding. It suggests that rather than waiting for tragedy to prompt change, one should strive to learn from life's moments while they still can. The sentiment resonates with anyone who has wished to revisit their past and make different choices for a better future.