It was a source of both terror and comfort to me then that I often seemed invisible - incompletely and minimally existent, in fact. It seemed to me that I made no impact on the world, and that in exchange I was privileged to watch it unawares.
In Marilynne Robinson's novel "Housekeeping," the narrator expresses a complex sense of identity, feeling both insignificant and liberated by their perceived invisibility. This duality becomes a source of both fear and solace; it allows the narrator to observe the world around them without feeling the need to engage or alter it. The lack of impact on the world brings a sense of freedom, as they can witness life unfold from a distance.
The idea of existing in a state of minimal presence reflects a broader exploration of the human experience. The narrator finds comfort in this unnoticed existence, suggesting that sometimes, being invisible can offer a unique perspective on life. This tension between presence and absence underscores themes of connection and separation, inviting readers to consider the complex emotions tied to belonging and individuality.