In her book "Bird Cloud," E. Annie Proulx reflects on the subtle passage of time while engaging with nature. As she walks through the land or digs into the soil, she becomes acutely aware of the minute changes happening around her. These changes, though small and imperceptible, contribute to the continuous flow of time and life. They are a reminder that transformation, whether in nature or existence itself, occurs quietly and steadily.

The author emphasizes that even the tiniest elements, like cell replication and the movement of dust, play a significant role in the ongoing process of time. Proulx illustrates how these gradual shifts may go unnoticed but are crucial to the fabric of life. Her observations convey a profound connection to the environment and highlight the beauty found in the small, almost unnoticeable changes in our surroundings.