In "How to Be Good" by Nick Hornby, the author reflects on the complexities of communication shaped by emotional pain and relationships. When people endure years of hurt, their conversations become filled with layers of meaning, making simple exchanges feel intricate and nuanced. This complexity often resembles the depth of a compelling theatrical performance, suggesting that the challenges of expressing feelings can result in conversations that are deeply charged with subtext.

The quote emphasizes that such profound discussions can only arise from significant experiences of suffering and interpersonal conflict. It implies that the way we express ourselves evolves into something that carries weight and significance, transforming ordinary dialogues into powerful exchanges influenced by past emotional scars, much like characters in a well-crafted play.