This quote beautifully captures a subtle yet profoundly emotional experience that many readers and storytellers share. Characters from books, movies, or shows often feel like companions on a journey, standing as figures who evoke genuine feelings, even though they exist solely within the realm of imagination. The nuance in the quote highlights that the type of missing is different from missing real people -- it's a bittersweet longing, an emotional echo of the connection that formed through storytelling.

The distinct separation between missing characters versus missing people underlines the unique space fictional characters inhabit in our lives. Characters are designed, developed, and come to life through narrative, dialogue, and emotion. They often represent ideals, conflicts, or human truths that resonate deeply. When these stories conclude or a character's arc ends, there remains a gap, a void that is not quite the ache of missing someone personal but still a poignant void.

In addition, this quote from "The End of Your Life Book Club" by Will Schwalbe reminds us of the power literature holds in human experience—how it shapes feelings and fosters empathy. It prompts reflection on how stories serve not only as entertainment but as meaningful emotional experiences that can imprint on our hearts as much as real interactions can. There's tenderness and a gentle acknowledgment in the line that missing fictional characters is valid and meaningful, revealing how immersive and impactful storytelling can be.