Icon frozen, yet not accessible, on screen

I have a MacBook Pro.

I have an icon for a file -- a .doc file -- that is frozen on my desktop.
I'm not sure "frozen" is the best term for it, but it has been there since
I attempted to either delete the file or drag it from the Finder to the desktop.

I also had my external hard drive plugged in at the time, so that may have been
part of the problem's origin.

It is not only immovable, but it also is superimposed over any window that I bring up.
So, while a movie is playing, the icon is visible.

When I attempt to click on it, there is no recognition by the pointer.

Does anyone have an idea as to what the problem and how it can be solved?

Thanks

Try plugging in your hard drive and then drag the file to the Trash. Empty the Trash while the hard drive is plugged in and mounted. You might also try holding down your command key and drag the file to the Trash to see if that works.

If that doesn't work simply restart the machine. I've seen various "ghost icons" before and they usually are stuck on the display.