In Jonathan Safran Foer's novel "Everything Is Illuminated," the narrative explores themes of history, memory, and the search for identity. The quote "The beginning of the world often comes" hints at the cyclical nature of life and the idea that new beginnings arise from the remnants of the past. This reflects the protagonist's journey as he unravels his family's history and confronts the complexities of his heritage.

The book intertwines past and present, as the characters navigate their relationships while uncovering painful truths. Foer's writing emphasizes the importance of storytelling in understanding one’s origins, suggesting that each new beginning is deeply connected to what has come before. Through this lens, the novel invites readers to reflect on their own histories and the impact of memory on their lives.