The term, when applied to literature such as S.E. Hinton’s The Outsiders, describes something that is difficult or impossible to understand. It suggests a depth or complexity that defies easy comprehension. For example, a character’s motives might be described using this word, implying that their actions stem from reasons too obscure or profound for others to grasp.
Its presence in The Outsiders highlights themes of social divide and the inherent opacity of human experience. The novel explores the challenges faced by characters from different socioeconomic backgrounds, emphasizing that each individual possesses a unique perspective shaped by circumstances often beyond superficial understanding. The use of the term can therefore underscore the misunderstandings and prejudices that fuel conflict within the story.
