In "The Road to Little Dribbling," Bill Bryson reflects on the passage of time since he wrote his first book, "Notes from a Small Island," twenty years ago. The mention of this milestone surprises him, highlighting how quickly time can pass unnoticed while an individual focuses on their life and work.

Bryson's acknowledgment of the success of his earlier work suggests a sense of nostalgia and appreciation for his journey as an author. His conversation emphasizes the contrasts between past experiences and the present, fostering a deeper understanding of how much has happened in that span, both in his life and in the world around him.