In the morning light filtering through the window, a man experiences a peculiar moment as he notices his right canine tooth hurting. This physical sensation prompts him to reflect on the strange and unpleasant aspect of his morning routine, symbolized by his disheveled hair, which is unkempt and slightly matted.

The scene is surreal, creating an eerie atmosphere as he questions how his appearance has come to embody a state of disarray. The imagery evokes a strong sense of unease and introspection, typical of Pynchon's narrative style, which often delves into the complexity of human experiences and the absurdities of life.