In her book "Slouching Towards Bethlehem," Joan Didion reflects on the burdens of fatigue, conflict, and anxiety that have weighed heavily on her. She expresses a sense of exhaustion from the constant struggles in her life, which have led to a cycle of quarrels and discontent. This prolonged tiredness seems to cloud her perspective, making everyday challenges feel even more daunting.

Didion also touches on her fears, particularly those related to migraines and the looming sense of potential failure. The fleeting nature of time, compounded by the shortening days, adds to her unease and heightens her feelings of vulnerability. Her introspective observations reveal a deep awareness of the emotional toll these pressures can take on an individual.