In Jonathan Safran Foer's novel "Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close," the protagonist grapples with a profound sense of loss and emptiness after a tragedy. The quote describes a deep internal void, suggesting that despite experiencing joy or happiness, they feel as though those feelings never fully reach them, instead slipping away into the abyss of sadness.

This metaphorical hole represents an emotional barrier that prevents the character from fully engaging with life and the people around them. It highlights the struggle of dealing with grief and the lingering impact of trauma, illustrating how it can overshadow moments of joy and connection.