In Haruki Murakami's "Pinball, 1973," the protagonist experiences feelings of dissonance and fragmentation, likening his identity to pieces from two separate puzzles. This imagery reflects a deep sense of unease and a search for coherence in his life. The character's struggle illustrates the complexity of self-perception and the challenges of reconciling different aspects of one's identity.

This recurring sensation hints at the broader theme of existential confusion, a common thread in Murakami's work. The protagonist's introspective journey invites readers to contemplate their own fragmented identities and the ways they piece together their experiences to form a cohesive sense of self.