The novel employs the I Ching and various philosophical concepts to explore truth, knowledge, and destiny. The I Ching, a Chinese divination system, is central to the narrative, symbolizing the unpredictability and contingency of life. Characters like Tagomi and Frank use it to make decisions, reflecting a fatalistic view of the future. This contrasts with the theme of free will, as characters like Juliana and John Smith challenge their circumstances and destiny through their actions.
The novel also delves into the nature of truth and knowledge. The existence of alternate realities, as depicted in the film reels, questions the reliability of perceived truth. Characters grapple with the idea that their reality might be a constructed illusion, similar to the film reels. This mirrors the philosophical debate on the nature of reality and the limits of human perception.
Lastly, the novel examines destiny and the role of fate. The I Ching's use suggests a predetermined future, while characters' actions challenge this notion. The concept of compatibilism is introduced, suggesting that determinism and free will can coexist. The novel ultimately leaves readers pondering the balance between fate and human agency, and the nature of truth and knowledge in a complex, ever-changing world.