In Thomas Pynchon's novel "Vineland," the protagonist experiences a profound sense of losing control amidst the relentless flow of time, likening it to rushing rapids. This scenario symbolizes the various stages of life, filled with challenges and transitions, such as relationships, parenthood, and significant life events. The metaphor illustrates the chaotic nature of adulthood and the hidden truths within it.

The narrative also delves into the concept of "soldiering," which represents the struggles and sacrifices of life, including the inevitability of death. The passage suggests that those who endure these hardships often grapple with life's harsh realities, while the children and innocent who are shielded from these truths remain blissfully unaware of the deeper, sometimes painful, aspects of existence.