Temporal bandwidth refers to the extent of one's present experience, essentially defining how wide one's perception of "now" is. This concept highlights the impact of our focus on the past and future; when we dwell extensively on these dimensions, our presence becomes more substantial and our identities more pronounced. Conversely, a narrow focus on the immediate moment can lead to a sense of disorientation, where individuals struggle to recall recent actions or thoughts.

In Thomas Pynchon's "Gravity's Rainbow", the character Slothrop exemplifies this struggle as he grapples with moments of confusion about his current situation. This illustrates a larger idea that the breadth of our temporal awareness shapes our sense of self and the clarity of our experiences. A wider temporal bandwidth enriches our identity, while a constricted awareness can create a fragile state of being.