In Annie Proulx's "Brokeback Mountain," the protagonist experiences a complex emotional landscape, marked by fluctuations between grief and joy. This duality is vividly illustrated by the contrasting states of his pillow and sheets, which reflect the turmoil and release he feels in his dreams and waking life.

The imagery of waking up with a wet pillow symbolizes moments of sorrow, while the feeling of joy signifies brief escapes from his struggles. This encapsulates the bittersweet nature of his existence, caught between profound love and societal constraints, ultimately highlighting the deep emotional impact of his experiences.