In "Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close," the protagonist grapples with feelings of emptiness and loss. He reflects on a profound connection with another person who can see beyond his exterior, reaching the deeper parts of his being. This experience emphasizes his vulnerability and the significance of genuine human connection.

After this poignant encounter, the protagonist experiences a sense of abandonment as the person he connected with leaves, taking with her the essence of what he feels inside. He is left with a superficial version of himself, highlighting a struggle between internal struggle and external appearances. This duality captures the themes of grief and the longing for understanding in the wake of profound loss.