In Jonathan Safran Foer's "Everything Is Illuminated," the theme of safety and peace within a shelter is explored, albeit with an air of uncertainty. The narrative questions the reasons behind the comfort found in such refuge, particularly when it is tied to concepts like self-esteem and attachment. The protagonist reflects on their experiences and how these factors influence their sense of security.

The shelter represents a complex relationship with identity and belonging, where the absence of self-worth and emotional burdens becomes a paradox. Despite not knowing the specifics of what makes a shelter safe, the quest for peace is a central pursuit, delving into the intricate layers of human connection and experience shaped by history and memory.