In "Everything Is Illuminated," Jonathan Safran Foer explores the complexity of emotional pain. He suggests that repeatedly denying one's hurt can actually amplify it. The more one insists they are not hurt, the deeper their understanding of pain becomes, leading to a greater sense of suffering. This cycle of denial and recognition can create a more profound feeling of distress.

Foer's quote reflects how our efforts to dismiss pain can backfire, turning a manageable hurt into an overwhelming sensation. The awareness of being hurt can become a burden in itself, revealing that acknowledging pain might be a necessary step towards healing rather than an act of vulnerability. It emphasizes the dual nature of our emotional experiences, where denial can often lead to enhanced suffering.