The article explores the significance of authors' public personas in the promotion and durability of their works, illustrating this with examples of writers like Norman Mailer. It emphasizes that when authors withdraw from public life, their readership tends to diminish over time, resulting in a precarious legacy for their books. The piece draws on the notion that an author's visibility plays a crucial role in sustaining their literary relevance and popularity.

Focusing on Thomas Pynchon, the article notes his unusual approach of remaining out of the public eye for nearly 90 years. This intentional absence is presented as a strategy to manage the longevity of his readership and the interpretation of his works. By not engaging in the typical promotional activities of modern authors, such as public appearances and interviews, Pynchon may have preserved the special connection he has with his dedicated followers, theoretically ensuring that his books continue to attract readers long after his departure.

The article posits that Pynchon's approach challenges traditional assumptions about the role of authors in shaping their literary legacies. It raises questions about how the absence of an author influences the ongoing discussion and analysis of their work, suggesting that Pynchon's unique choice to remain in the shadows might ultimately bolster his influence and maintain his place in literary discourse.