Abstract
Paul Auster’s novel Invisible showcases the complexity of narrative and the uncertainty of its meaning. However, interpreting it as a complex chaotic system enables readers to clarify the text’s context and gain insight into the author’s intentions. As a representation of a chaotic system, the narrative plot exemplifies the “butterfly effect,” highlighting the disorder and unpredictability of the characters’ fates. Meanwhile, the narrative structure of “strange attractors” elucidates underlying order within chaos and the dynamic nature of character relationships. Through in-depth analysis, it becomes evident that the metaphor of the phallus functions as a “strange attractor.” By tracing its trajectory, the subject feels both seduced and ensnared by the phallus, while also being gazed upon and repelled. This analysis further clarifies the meaning of the title “Invisible” which not only signifies the invisible infiltration of power and capital but also symbolizes the invisible existence and resistance of minority groups. These two opposing forces contribute to the formation of this chaotic system.
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Each author has contributed to the conception of the work. Cheng Ying, who is also the corresponding author, drafted the manuscript under Zhang Xiaoping's guidance on chaos theory. Cheng Ying is primarily responsible for revising the manuscript. Both Cheng Ying and Zhang Xiaoping have approved the submitted version, as well as any substantially modified versions involving their contributions to the study. Additionally, both authors have agreed to be personally accountable for their own contributions and to ensure the accuracy and integrity of all parts of the paper.
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Cheng, Y., Zhang, X. Reconceiving Paul Auster’s Invisible through the lens of chaos theory. Humanit Soc Sci Commun (2026). https://doi.org/10.1057/s41599-026-06723-0
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1057/s41599-026-06723-0
