The author, Wallace Stegner, reflects on his life and accomplishments with a sense of dissatisfaction. Despite being busy throughout his career, he feels that he has not achieved anything of significant value. The works he has produced do not live up to his original vision, leading him to question the impact of his writing.
Stegner expresses that the accolades he has received, such as income, recognition, and awards, feel superficial and inadequate. He suggests that true fulfillment should go beyond these external rewards, indicating a deeper desire for meaningful contributions to literature and a legacy that resonates more profoundly than accolades.