Time Enough at Last: One for the Books

Podcast: Fictional
Hosts: Jason Weiser & Carissa Weiser
Episode Release Date: November 10, 2022

Introduction

In this episode of Fictional, co-hosts Jason and Carissa Weiser delve into a poignant narrative inspired by "Time Enough At Last" by Len Venable. Blending classic literature themes with a modern tone, the episode explores the life of Henry Bemis, a man whose longing for personal time leads to unforeseen consequences. Through rich storytelling and thoughtful reflection, Jason and Carissa invite listeners to contemplate the balance between life's demands and personal aspirations.

Story Summary: Henry Bemis's Journey

The episode opens with Henry Bemis, a beleaguered employee at the Eastside Bank and Trust, seeking solace in solitude—a rarity in his hectic life. [00:11] Henry's desire for a quiet moment to read a hidden magazine is thwarted by his overbearing wife, Agnes, who insists on maintaining their social obligations, such as bridge night. Despite Henry's attempts to savor a private moment, Agnes disrupts him, symbolizing the constant demands placed upon him.

Henry's dissatisfaction extends to his workplace, dominated by the ruthless Mr. Carsville, whose obsession with money overshadows genuine human connection. [05:32] The monotony and lack of personal fulfillment drive Henry into deeper despair, culminating in a fateful day when an unexpected disaster strikes the bank. While Henry hides in the vault, a catastrophic event obliterates the bank and its occupants, leaving him seemingly alone amidst the wreckage.

As Henry navigates the devastated environment, the surreal transformation of the vault symbolizes the collapse of his structured but unfulfilling life. [15:45] His journey leads him to the public library—a sanctuary he has longed to visit but never had the time to explore. The library represents Henry's deepest desire for knowledge and personal growth. Tragically, just as Henry begins to embrace his newfound freedom, another devastating event claims his life, leaving him with the symbolic "time enough at last" to pursue his passion but devoid of the chance to do so.

Hosts' Reflections and Insights

Following the haunting narrative, Jason and Carissa transition into a reflective discussion, drawing parallels between Henry's story and real-life experiences. They emphasize the central theme of the episode: the elusive nature of time and the importance of prioritizing personal aspirations amidst life's demands.

Jason Weiser shares a personal anecdote from his time conducting psychometric testing, illustrating the heartbreaking reality of missed opportunities. He recounts a couple in their late sixties whose dreams of retirement together were shattered by the wife's early-onset Alzheimer's disease. [32:10] This story underscores the transient nature of time and the devastating impact of unfulfilled aspirations.

Carissa Weiser echoes this sentiment, highlighting the necessity of striking a balance between responsibility and living in the moment. She encourages listeners to seize everyday opportunities, such as spending quality time with loved ones or engaging in personal hobbies, instead of deferring gratification to an uncertain future. [35:45]

The hosts also critique Henry's approach to his yearning for reading. Instead of gradually incorporating reading into his life, Henry idealizes the act to the point of inaction. [28:20] This critique serves as a cautionary tale about the paralysis that can result from placing aspirations on an indefinite timeline.

Together, Jason and Carissa advocate for intentional living—making time for meaningful activities and relationships now, rather than waiting for an undefined "someday." They emphasize that while planning for the future is important, it should not come at the expense of present joys and personal fulfillment.

Notable Quotes

• Henry Bemis Reflecting on Time:

  "Time was always what Henry Bemis thought he lacked. But time, he'll come to see, was not his problem at all."
  [12:45]

• Mr. Carsville on His Obsession:

  "It's a bank, Bemis. Our whole thing is money. Let's make it as interest wait for it ing as possible."
  [08:30]

• Host Reflection on Henry's Final Moment:

  "When it comes to people, relationships, and the things you want to do in life, you have to make time and make those things a priority."
  Jason Weiser [36:00]

• Carissa on Living in the Present:

  "Don't forget to live. You probably shouldn't book a private jet and go to Vegas tonight, but it might not be bad to close the laptop and put the work away and read your child a story before bed."
  [34:15]

• Conclusion on Henry's Realization:

  "All the time one could ever wish to have, could not grant the freedom to do the one thing Henry Bemis always longed to do... was always someday, but never this day."
  [50:20]

Conclusion

In "Time Enough at Last: One for the Books," Jason and Carissa Weiser craft a narrative that serves as both a gripping story and a profound meditation on time and priorities. Through Henry Bemis's tragic quest for personal time, listeners are reminded of the impermanence of opportunities and the essential need to cherish and act upon one's desires in the present. The episode masterfully intertwines storytelling with real-life reflections, leaving audiences with a lasting impression of the value of time and the importance of living intentionally.

Thank you for listening to Fictional. Join us next time as we explore another timeless tale with a modern twist.