In Jonathan Lethem's novel "A Gambler's Anatomy," the passage reflects on the passage of time, capturing how minutes seamlessly flow into hours, emphasizing the monotony that can accompany a prolonged experience. This phrase suggests an immersive yet stagnant state, where time loses its significance in the face of ongoing events.
Moreover, the context of gambling often intertwines with anticipation and anxiety, where every moment can feel extended or abruptly fleeting. Lethem skillfully paints a picture of a protagonist possibly caught in the throes of this experience, illustrating a deeper philosophical exploration of time and existence within the high-stakes world of gambling.