In "Koba the Dread," Martin Amis engages with John Updike's perspective on the existence of God, suggesting that belief stems from a deep, shared human desire for divine presence. This yearning reflects a fundamental aspect of human nature, where people seek meaning and reassurance in the concept of a higher power.

Amis presents this argument within the broader context of human experience, examining how the hope for God’s existence intertwines with our existential challenges. The notion that our collective longing for God may be the only proof of His existence invites readers to reflect on the significance of faith and the human condition.