In Jonathan Safran Foer's "Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close," the protagonist reflects on the pain of losing a loved one and the lessons learned from that experience. The quote captures a profound regret about not appreciating the present moment more deeply. It emphasizes the idea that one should treat every encounter and experience with significance, as life is unpredictable and fleeting.

This sentiment speaks to a broader theme of the book, which examines the complexities of grief and the human tendency to take moments for granted. By placing too much faith in what the future holds, the protagonist realizes that they may have overlooked the importance of living fully in the now. This lesson serves as a poignant reminder of the value of each moment.