The narrator reflects on a profound moment of grief that transcends time, as he witnesses a woman's deep sorrow for a lost loved one. Even as they exchange greetings, her expression reveals a sense of unbearable despair, suggesting that for her, the death occurred just moments ago. This realization strikes the narrator with such intensity that he also feels as if the tragedy is fresh, drawing him into her emotional experience.

This shared moment of grief connects both the narrator and the woman to their lost loved one, emphasizing the timeless nature of sorrow. Despite the passage of time, her mourning feels immediate and all-consuming, highlighting how deeply personal loss impacts one's experience of time and memory. The interplay of their emotions suggests a strong bond between past and present, encapsulating the essence of mourning in a manner that resonates with the reader.