What is the main conflict in What Dreams May Come: A Novel by Richard Matheson?

Chris Nielsen dies in a car accident one night after going to a movie. As a screenplay writer, he considers his research to be watching movies. Usually his son, Ian, accompanies him, but his night he is alone. Chris's spirit leaves his body and wanders around Borderland, removed from life and yet not moving on. He is unable to leave his wife, Ann. Her grief at his death is his pain and he wishes to be able to help her. After several attempts at reaching his family, Chris finally prays for help, and is immediately removed from Borderland.