In "Inherent Vice" by Thomas Pynchon, a character named Motella contemplates the emotional implications of physical intimacy with someone who bears another person's name tattooed on their body. This situation raises questions about trust, jealousy, and the remnants of past relationships that linger in the present, serving as a reminder of what has come before.
Lourdes adds a pragmatic perspective to the conversation, suggesting that as long as their activities in bed are focused elsewhere, such as reading, the tattoo wouldn't pose a problem. This exchange highlights a recurring theme in the narrative about the complexity of relationships and the influence of personal history on current connections.