Knowing you are alive is watching on every side your generation's short time falling away as fast as rivers drop through air, and feeling it hit.
Annie Dillard, in her work "An American Childhood," reflects on the awareness of life's fleeting nature. She captures the essence of being alive by comparing the passage of time to rivers dropping through the air, emphasizing the inevitable loss that comes with it. This imagery evokes a sense of urgency and the importance of cherishing moments as they swiftly slip away.
The quote suggests that acknowledging our existence includes recognizing the rapid decline of our generation and the experiences that shape it. Dillard's poignant words remind us to be present and to appreciate the beauty and transience of life, urging us to engage fully with our surroundings and the people in our lives.
