In John Green's book "Paper Towns," a key idea is that our perceptions of people can often be misleading. The way we think we understand someone is not always accurate, and this can lead to misunderstandings. When we only view someone from a distance, we may miss important aspects of their character and individuality.
The author emphasizes the importance of proximity—both physical and emotional—in truly knowing someone. By being close to a person, we can gain deeper insights into who they really are, rather than relying on preconceived notions or superficial impressions.