In Jonathan Safran Foer's novel "Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close," the concept of loss is poignantly explored. The quote, "It's better to lose than to never have had," suggests that the experience of love, connection, or joy, even if it leads to pain, is more valuable than never experiencing it at all. This highlights the importance of embracing emotions and relationships, regardless of the eventual heartache they might bring.

The narrative demonstrates that the journey through grief and memory can lead to growth and understanding. Characters navigate their feelings of loss and the ways it shapes their identities. Ultimately, the quote encapsulates a philosophy of life that values the richness of experiences, encouraging readers to cherish their connections with others, even in the face of inevitable loss.