In "Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close," Jonathan Safran Foer explores the significance of emotions and dreams in human experience. The narrative follows a young boy named Oskar as he navigates his profound sense of loss and his quest for meaning after his father's tragic death. Through Oskar's journey, Foer illustrates that feelings are essential for connecting with others and comprehending the complexities of life.

Dreaming also plays a crucial role in Oskar's understanding of his world. It allows him to escape his pain and envision possibilities beyond his current reality. Foer's work emphasizes that embracing both feelings and dreams can lead to healing and insights, highlighting their importance in overcoming grief and fostering human connections.