In "On Boxing," Joyce Carol Oates explores the intricate parallels between life and the sport of boxing. She suggests that life is akin to a boxing match, characterized by constant rounds of struggle and perseverance. Just as boxers face their opponents in a relentless fight, individuals encounter continuous challenges, with each round representing different phases of life. The metaphor illustrates how victories and defeats blur together, making it hard to see a clear outcome.

Oates emphasizes the nature of resilience and the importance of enduring through life's uncertainties. The comparison to boxing highlights the cyclical nature of existence, where the same struggles reappear, creating an ongoing contest. This relentless pursuit can leave one feeling equally matched against their adversities, with no distinct winner in sight, yet the fight itself is what shapes the essence of life.