In John Updike's "Rabbit Redux," the author conveys the passage of time through the metaphor of days and nights. He describes how days act as thin layers that exist between the more prominent nights, suggesting that each day carries its own essence but remains subtle in comparison. Only when these days are viewed collectively do they reveal a more profound and darker meaning, highlighting the inevitability of life’s complexities.
This imagery illustrates the fragility of daily experiences and how, when accumulated, they can take on a significant weight. Updike's reflection on time captures the nuances of existence, reminding the reader that each moment, though seemingly light, contributes to a deeper and sometimes grim reality that forms our lives over time.