In Philip K. Dick's book "Total Recall," the descent of the elevator symbolizes a significant change or transition for the character involved. The act of going down can represent a journey into the subconscious or a deeper exploration of one's thoughts and experiences. The descent might be viewed as moving away from consciousness into realms of memory or identity confusion, typical themes in Dick's works.

This moment in the narrative captures the essence of the story, highlighting how the character’s internal struggles and quests for identity unfold. As the elevator descends, it invokes a sense of anticipation and curiosity about what will happen next, reflecting the complex layers of perception and reality woven throughout the plot.