In this excerpt from "A Tale for the Time Being" by Ruth Ozeki, the narrator expresses a complex relationship with questions and the act of seeking answers. Despite recognizing that the questions may not receive answers, there's a deep yearning for connection and understanding. The narrator contemplates the nature of communication, especially when it comes to asking about someone's well-being, reflecting on the importance of imaginative dialogue in the absence of direct responses.

The idea of friendship transcends physical presence, as illustrated by the imagined responses the narrator might receive. This longing for acknowledgment emphasizes the bond that has developed over time, highlighting the emotional intimacy that can exist even without real-time interaction. The narrator conveys a sense of companionship and solace through shared silence and empathy, reinforcing how friendships can persist through thoughts and shared experiences, even when one party is not physically present.