In "Colorless Tsukuru Tazaki and His Years of Pilgrimage," Haruki Murakami explores the theme of emotional processing through the protagonist's coping mechanisms. The character, faced with uncertainty and unresolved feelings, decides to compartmentalize his doubts. This act of placing his doubts in a mental drawer labeled "Pending" reflects a common human tendency to postpone difficult emotions rather than confront them directly.

This internal struggle highlights the challenges of self-reflection and the impact of past relationships. By choosing to delay his consideration of these doubts, the character illustrates how unresolved issues can linger in one's mind, affecting personal growth and emotional clarity. Murakami's narrative invites readers to reflect on their own methods of dealing with complex feelings and the potential consequences of avoidance.