In "No Country for Old Men" by Cormac McCarthy, the author explores the theme of people often neglecting important issues until it’s too late. The saying that people don't pay attention highlights a widespread complacency in society, where individuals ignore warning signs or moral dilemmas. This lack of awareness can lead to dire consequences, suggesting that actions have repercussions, often felt only after a significant event occurs.

When the quote mentions an "accounting," it signifies a moment of reckoning where the consequences of inaction are laid bare. This pivotal moment changes everything, emphasizing that once faced with the reality of one's choices, the world can never return to its prior state. McCarthy illustrates the fragility of human existence and the inevitable truth that ignoring problems ultimately leads to a painful awakening.