This quote from Tennessee Williams' play, "The Milk Train Doesn't Stop Here Anymore," highlights the fleeting nature of the present moment. It suggests that our lives are largely comprised of memories, as we often find ourselves reflecting on the past rather than fully engaging with the now. The present slips away so swiftly that it can be difficult to appreciate or even notice it as it occurs.

Williams emphasizes the importance of awareness in our daily experiences. By recognizing that life is largely a collection of memories, we can better appreciate the significance of each moment as it passes. The quote serves as a reminder to cherish the present instead of getting lost in the reminiscence or anticipation of what has been or what is yet to come.