In H.G. Wells' "The World Set Free," the idea presented is that life is transient and can be seen as a series of fleeting moments. While one is alive, they exist within the present, constantly moving through time with each moment passing by. The essence of one's existence is encapsulated in the here and now, with each experience contributing to the overall perception of life.

However, the perspective shifts upon death. Once a person has passed away, their life is no longer defined by the individual moments but rather becomes a cohesive whole, encompassing all experiences from beginning to end. In this light, death brings a sense of completeness to one's life story, where every moment contributes to the legacy left behind.