In Philip K. Dick's novel "Ubik," the protagonist comes to a startling realization about the intricate systems that sustain his life. He visualizes his body as a machine filled with various components, such as pipes and valves, working tirelessly to maintain his existence. This vivid imagery illustrates the fragility of life and the relentless nature of human survival despite the inevitable decline.

This reflection on the mechanical nature of existence highlights the struggle against the passage of time and the ultimate futility of these efforts. The protagonist's awareness of these physical realities suggests a sense of existential contemplation, as he becomes aware that no matter how hard the mechanisms strive to keep him alive, they are engaged in a futile battle against the natural course of life and decay.