In Thomas Pynchon's "Against the Day," the author critiques governments by highlighting how budgets reflect pre-allocated funds driven by underlying fears. This observation suggests that financial resources are systematically designated, often in response to urgent concerns, impacting decision-making and priorities in governmental contexts. The recurrent theme of fear—whether immediate or looming—dictates how funds are utilized, indicating a reactive rather than a proactive governance style.

Pynchon implies that the allocation of resources is not just a matter of fiscal planning but is fundamentally influenced by a culture of anxiety. The urgency of fear amplifies the need for expenditures, resulting in higher allocations where there is perceived threat. This dynamic creates a cycle where the past and present fears shape future financial decisions, underscoring a pervasive atmosphere of uncertainty in public policy.