The essence of existence is captured in a reflection on life and time, as expressed in Orhan Pamuk's "My Name Is Red." The quote emphasizes the concept of an infinite span before and after one's life, highlighting the transient nature of human experience. It illustrates a sense of awareness about living in the present moment, which exists brightly amid the vastness of time that surrounds it.

This contrast between the brilliance of life and the darkness of time before and after it reveals profound insights into mortality. The protagonist contemplates the fullness of their life, acknowledging that while the periods beyond their existence remain unknowable and endless, the current experience is vibrant and significant. This perspective deepens the appreciation of life’s fleeting moments within the broader temporal continuum.