In Philip K. Dick's "Now Wait for Last Year," the narrative explores themes of existence and purpose through the character's reflections on a seemingly insignificant being residing in a zinc bucket. This being, lacking social structures such as a spouse, job, or home, symbolizes a raw form of existence that raises questions about the value of life beyond material success and societal validation.

The protagonist recognizes the relentless spirit of this entity, which endures with a profound tenacity that contrasts sharply with his own struggles. This realization sparks contemplation about the nature of existence, leading to the profound observation that some beings may possess a deeper connection to life than those who are more conventionally successful.