Michael Harris, a renowned number theorist, proposes an intriguing interpretation of three major novels by Thomas Pynchon, suggesting that their structures align with the three conic sections. He argues that "Gravity's Rainbow" relates to parabolas due to its themes of launching and dropping rockets, while "Mason & Dixon" embodies ellipses. In contrast, "Against the Day" is associated with hyperbolas. This perspective offers a fresh lens through which to understand Pynchon's complex narratives.

Such an organizing theory resonates with the notion that Pynchon's background in physics influences his literary work, as he often incorporates mathematical references, including Mobius strips and quaternions. Harris's theory provides a compelling framework for analyzing these novels, highlighting how Pynchon weaves scientific concepts into his storytelling. Ellenberg's exploration of this perspective in "How Not to Be Wrong" further enriches our appreciation of the interplay between mathematics and literature.