The quote by Wallace Stegner in "The Spectator Bird" likens aging to waiting in a prolonged, slow-moving line. It suggests that the experience of growing older is often characterized by monotony and a sense of delay, where one finds themselves in a state of waiting rather than actively engaging with life. The imagery of standing in line evokes feelings of inertia and the passage of time, highlighting how life can sometimes feel stagnant as we age.

However, there are moments when progress is made, symbolized by moving closer to the window. These moments signify the milestones and events in life that remind us of the passage of time and the experiences that enrich it. Stegner's metaphor emphasizes the bittersweet nature of aging, where each small step forward brings a mix of anticipation and reflection on the journey of life.