I was still alive, but that was a mere detail, subject to change. (p. 13) - Keith Laumer

Sure—that’s the concept. It wouldn’t be the first concept that had to be modified in the face of experience.

Too late, I realized how I had trapped myself. I had let sleep in as a guest, and death had slipped through the door.

Quelius—you're nuts—did you know that?
"Of course. That's quite all right. Better embarked on an exciting insanity than moldering away in dull normality. One thing you can't deny: we psychotics lead interesting lives."