In "The Crying of Lot 49" by Thomas Pynchon, the character Oedipa experiences deep emotional turmoil while observing a painting. She stands there, undetected by those around her, hidden behind dark green bubble shades. This moment of sorrow moves her to tears, provoking a contemplation about the possibility of carrying those tears within her for eternity. The lens of her sunglasses serves as a metaphor for her emotional state, allowing her to see the world through a unique and distorted perspective.

Oedipa's reflection on her tears suggests that each emotional experience can produce a different and significant impact, emphasizing the individuality of human emotions. The idea that these tears could continue to exist and affect her perception of reality highlights the complexities of grief and sadness. Pynchon expertly uses this moment to illustrate the interplay between perception, emotion, and the ways we process our experiences in relation to the world around us.