In Gore Vidal's book "Julian," the author reflects on the arbitrary nature of one's circumstances in life, comparing our assigned place in time to the condition of our eyesight. Just as we do not choose whether our vision is strong or weak, we are similarly placed in a specific historical context that we cannot control. This idea highlights the randomness of our experiences and the challenges we face based on the time and society into which we are born.

Vidal emphasizes the struggles of navigating a complicated world, describing it as a "squinting, walleyed" existence. This metaphor evokes the confusion and hardship that can come with living in a tumultuous era. Through this lens, he invites readers to contemplate the limitations and difficulties that accompany their unique positions in history, suggesting that these factors play a significant role in shaping their lives and perspectives.