In "A Tale for the Time Being," author Ruth Ozeki conveys a profound connection between sound and silence through the metaphor of beating a drum. The act of drumming symbolizes the creation of the present moment, where silence transforms into a powerful, vibrant experience. This interaction suggests that time is not just measured in moments but felt through sensations and emotions, embodying both the calmness of silence and the intensity of sound.

Jiko’s reflections highlight the duality of existence, emphasizing that every sound, like thunder, carries the weight of absence in silence. This interplay illustrates a deeper understanding of time, where every heartbeat resonates with the essence of the universe. It reinforces the idea that our experiences of the present moment are shaped by both the hum of life and the stillness that surrounds it.