In this reflection, Burroughs captures the struggle of individuals who feel compelled to speak despite having little of substance to offer. It highlights a societal fear of silence, leading people to express thoughts that lack depth and significance. This tendency results in conversations that feel unengaging and hollow, echoing a sense of existential dread.

The phrase also suggests a pervasive awareness of mortality among people, implying that the fear of death informs their interactions. Rather than engaging in meaningful dialogue, many resort to superficial exchanges, which fail to convey their true feelings or thoughts, demonstrating the weight of existential concerns in everyday communication.