In Norman Mailer's "Harlot's Ghost," a provocative statement suggests that the universe is an elaborate construct intended to mislead humanity into believing in evolution, thereby drawing attention away from a divine creator. This perspective presents a critical view of science and evolution as tools of deception rather than pathways to truth.

The quote implies a deliberate manipulation by a higher power to foster doubt about God’s existence. It raises fundamental questions about faith, perception, and the nature of reality, challenging readers to consider the complex interplay between religion and science.