The quote "The breaking of a wave cannot explain the whole sea" from Vladimir Nabokov's book "The Real Life of Sebastian Knight" suggests that individual experiences or events cannot fully capture the entirety of life or existence. It's a metaphor for the complexity and vastness of the human experience, where single moments or actions are limited in their ability to represent the broader context of our lives.

This idea emphasizes the importance of looking beyond surface events to understand deeper truths. Just as a wave is a small part of the ocean, individual moments in life are mere glimpses of a larger narrative. This perspective encourages a more profound reflection on the interconnectedness of experiences and the richness of life's journey.