In Haruki Murakami's book "What I Talk About When I Talk About Running," he reflects on the nature of life and death, particularly pondering whether a person's thoughts and consciousness disappear when they die. This contemplation raises profound questions about existence and the legacy of one's thoughts, suggesting that human experiences might leave traces beyond physical life.

Murakami intertwines his musings on mortality with parallels drawn from his running practice, suggesting that, like running, life is a journey filled with both challenges and insights. Through these reflections, he invites readers to consider the enduring impact of our thoughts, even after we are gone, and the significance of the memories we create throughout our lives.