In Ruth Ozeki's "A Tale for the Time Being," the author explores the concept of time and its fleeting nature. The idea that the moment one articulates "now," it instantly transitions into the past underscores the ephemeral quality of time. This statement highlights the paradox of trying to capture a moment that is perpetually slipping away, demonstrating how language struggles to convey the immediacy of the present.

The quote implies that each moment is a transition into 'then,' and by labeling it as 'now,' we paradoxically diminish its significance. This reflection invites readers to contemplate the nature of existence and the continuous flow of time, urging a deeper understanding of how we perceive and value the present moment. Ozeki's work encourages a mindfulness about time, suggesting that the act of recognition is at odds with the realities of its passage.