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"The Vivisector" is a novel by Patrick White, an Australian writer who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1973. The novel tells the story of an artist named Hurtle Duffield, who is a complex and controversial figure.

The novel begins with Hurtle's childhood and follows him through his adult life as he becomes a successful painter. Hurtle is a deeply troubled and complex character, and the novel delves into the psychological struggles that he faces throughout his life.

One of the central themes of the novel is the relationship between art and life. Hurtle is a vivisector in the sense that he cuts into the lives of those around him in order to understand them and use their experiences as inspiration for his art. This often causes conflict and pain for those around him, as they feel exploited and used.

Another theme of the novel is the concept of identity. Hurtle is a chameleon-like character who constantly changes his appearance and personality in order to fit in with those around him. He is often unsure of his own identity and struggles to find a sense of self.

Throughout the novel, Hurtle's relationships with those around him are strained and tumultuous. He is often at odds with his family and friends, and his love affairs are tumultuous and often end in heartbreak.

Despite the difficulties that he faces, Hurtle is a driven and talented artist, and he eventually achieves great success and recognition for his work. However, this success comes at a great cost, as Hurtle is forced to confront the demons of his past and the toll that his vivisection has taken on those around him.

In the end, Hurtle is left to confront the legacy of his life and the impact that he has had on those around him. "The Vivisector" is a complex and thought-provoking novel that explores the relationship between art and life, and the search for identity and meaning in a world that is often confusing and difficult to navigate.