In Richard Russo's "Empire Falls," the author emphasizes the importance of experience in understanding one's own limitations. The quote suggests that true mastery or control over a situation can only be assessed after confronting its full range of possibilities. It implies that one must engage deeply with something to truly grasp its impact and challenges.
This perspective invites readers to recognize that judgment is often superficial unless it is informed by real encounters. By engaging with extremes, individuals can better evaluate their own skills and the depth of their control over circumstances. Thus, personal growth and understanding emerge from challenging experiences.