In Joyce Carol Oates' novel "Blonde," there's a reflection on the nature of existence that contrasts different states of being. A Greek philosopher suggests that not being born is the ultimate bliss, emphasizing the burdens of life. However, the narrator argues that sleep surpasses even that, providing a unique experience that bridges life and death. In sleep, one can find serenity without the anxieties and pains of reality.

This philosophical perspective highlights the bittersweet nature of human experience. While life comes with its challenges, sleep offers a temporary escape, creating a state that is both peaceful and rejuvenating. The narrator captures the exquisite sensation of sleep, suggesting that it can be a form of relief from life's struggles, hinting at a deeper understanding of existence and the desire for a transient reprieve from reality.