This quote underscores the importance of deepening one’s understanding of the characters in storytelling. When crafting stories, especially in fiction, characters are the heart of the narrative. The more fully a writer can understand a character's backgrounds, motivations, fears, desires, and quirks, the more authentic and compelling that character becomes. This depth allows for more nuanced interactions and complex developments over the course of the story, ultimately providing a richer experience for the reader.

Knowing your characters intimately also helps in creating consistent behavior and reactions, which are vital for believability. It enables the writer to make choices that align with a character’s core personality, thus avoiding inconsistencies that might distract or alienate the reader. Moreover, understanding subtle nuances of a character can inspire plot twists and twists that are both surprising yet inevitable in hindsight.

Extending beyond just writing fiction, this principle applies broadly to any form of character study—be it in acting, psychology, or personal relationships. In acting, for example, performers benefit immensely from immersing themselves into their characters to bring authenticity to their roles.

Ultimately, this quote advocates for a mindset of curiosity and continuous discovery about the characters one creates or encounters. Each detail and layer uncovered leads to a more compelling, truthful portrayal. It affirms that perfect understanding is a goal rather than an end, emphasizing lifelong learning and exploration within the realm of character development.