In her reflections on life, Annie Dillard emphasizes the distinction between fleeting moments of pleasure and a fulfilling life. She argues that while there are many enjoyable days, a truly good life, characterized by depth and meaning, is rare. Living solely for sensory experiences can lead to insatiable greed, demanding continual stimulation, while a life rich in spiritual fulfillment entails simplicity and appreciation for time's passage.

Dillard suggests that the quality of life should not be measured by daily superficial pleasures but by the accumulation of significant experiences. For instance, she points out that a single day spent reading might not seem remarkable, but a life devoted to reading embodies richness and depth, illustrating that true enrichment lies in the experiences that contribute to our growth and understanding.