In the book "Closing Time" by Joseph Heller, the protagonist reflects on the passage of time and the realization of mortality. When he discovers that a loved one is unwell, he experiences a profound sense of aging for the first time. This moment represents a poignant shift in his perspective on life and health.

The quote reveals a deep emotional connection between the speaker and the person who is ill. While there is hope for recovery for the sick individual, the speaker feels a sense of permanence and inevitability regarding their own decline. This juxtaposition underscores the themes of aging, loss, and the human condition that Heller explores in his work.