In his book "Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close," Jonathan Safran Foer explores the burdensome nature of overthinking. The protagonist expresses a deep sense of frustration, questioning the value of constant contemplation. These thoughts serve only to heighten his pain, leading him to wonder if ignorance might actually provide relief from such anguish.

As he reflects on his experiences, he realizes that excessive thinking has never led him to happiness. Instead, he has repeatedly overanalyzed his circumstances without finding a way to joy. The character highlights a struggle familiar to many: an inner conflict between understanding and emotional well-being, ultimately questioning whether all this mental activity is worth it in the end.