"The Road" by Cormac McCarthy presents a bleak and harrowing vision of a post-apocalyptic world where survival is a constant struggle. The journey of a father and his son through this desolate landscape highlights the theme of existential despair amidst the harsh realities of life. The father's protective instincts drive him to teach his son about morality and hope, despite the overwhelming despair surrounding them.

The quote "Every day is a lie, he said. But you are dying. That is not a lie." encapsulates the profound sense of disillusionment faced by the characters. While they navigate the pretense of normalcy in a world stripped of meaning, the stark truth of their mortality looms large. This statement reflects the tension between the facade of everyday existence and the stark reality of their dire situation, underscoring the depth of their struggle for survival and truth.