In the novel "A Soldier of the Great War" by Mark Helprin, a conversation touches on the experience of aging and the perception of time. The speaker explains that as people grow older, they tend to walk more slowly, not just physically, but also in how they perceive the world around them. This slower pace is linked to the "gift of friction" that accompanies aging.

The essence of this friction lies in the deeper connection to time and experiences as one ages. The less time remaining in life intensifies suffering, awareness, and observation, leading to a phenomenon where time seems to move more slowly, despite its unyielding advance. Understanding this connection can be profound and reflects the complexities of growing older.