In Philip K. Dick's novel "Ubik," the concept of time travel is explored in a unique manner. The protagonist does not travel into the future or the past in a traditional sense; instead, she initiates a process that reveals previous states of matter. This perspective on time travel challenges conventional notions, as it suggests an uncovering of latent history rather than a direct journey through time.

This interpretation raises intriguing questions about the nature of reality and existence. Rather than moving through time, the character's experience entails unraveling layers of the past, highlighting the complexities of time as a dimension. Dick’s narrative invites readers to contemplate the implications of perceiving time and its inherent stages, thereby enriching the science fiction genre with philosophical depth.