Except for Chance in Being There, Kosinski's central characters reflect the author to the extent that critics have always felt compelled to point out the resemblances. Kosinski, however, always warned against viewing his central character as autobiographical.

Following Stokes and Fremont-Smith's accusations, Kosinski decided to address the issue of the relationship between himself and his characters. He called The Hermit of 69th Street "autofiction," which by itself renders problematic any parallels or distinctions critics would want to draw between author and character. His variations on his and his character's name furthers the confusion. Kosky is Kosinski without "sin" as several critics have noted.

J. K., Jay Kay, and Jerzy Kosinski, used for editorial asides, invite speculation as to subtle distinctions Kosinski might be making, and several critics have tried unconvincingly to sort them out.

Kosinski draws out his tease further in a scene where Kosky finds out from...