It is often described on the surface level as a zany espionage novel, thematically about psychology and paranoia, over the backdrop of the war. Confusion I suspect is part of the experience, but you gain a clearer picture of it as you go on (maybe). Anyway, not for everyone.
Keep reading! I felt the same way but ended up really liking it when I (finally) finished it. His style is tough, especially in that one. The Crying of Lot 49 would be an easier way to get into Pynchon, if you haven’t read that one yet.
Before giving up I'm going to try to read one of those book summaries or an analysis to try to regain my footing.