"You walk through a series of arches, so to speak, and then, presently, at the end of a corridor, a door opens and you see backward through time, and you feel the flow of time, and realize you are only part of a great nameless procession"

In this expressive quote by John Huston, the imagery of walking through a series of arches represents the passage of time and the development of life. Each archway represents a phase or substantial minute that one encounters on their journey, suggesting that life is a series of experiences that shape who we are. The phrase "so to speak" implies that these arches are metaphorical, highlighting that the journey is more about personal development and understanding than actual passages.

As we move "currently, at the end of a passage", we reach a pivotal moment of reflection or discovery. This corridor symbolizes the accumulation of experiences, which culminate in a point where we get insight into the continuum of our presence. The "opening door" at the end of the corridor symbolizes a moment of clearness or an epiphany where we can look "backward through time". This backward look highlights the value of memory in understanding our past decisions, actions, and their interconnectedness.

Moreover, "you feel the circulation of time" suggests a deep, nearly tangible awareness of time's relentless development. This realization causes an extensive understanding of one's momentary existence in the vast stretch of history. The phrase "you are just part of a fantastic anonymous procession" can induce a humbling impact, as it presumes the specific as merely one small component in the grand, ongoing motion of time and mankind.

In essence, Huston's quote speaks to the universal human experience of navigating the passage of time, marked by substantial minutes of improvement and self-realization. It reflects the understanding that while individuals go through life experiencing distinct minutes and insights, they belong to a larger, timeless continuum, passing through the ages in an endless procession. This point of view motivates us to accept our personal journeys while acknowledging our place in the broader tapestry of presence.