The author quotes writer James Joyce in describing humans as a “parenthesis of infinitesimal brevity.” The authors are suggesting that as a species, humans
A could eventually become immortal.
B should dig deeper to find meaning.
C will outlive all other life on Earth.
D have been around for an instant.
The correct answer is D: have been around for an instant.
This phrase “parenthesis of infinitesimal brevity” suggests that humans exist only for a very short time in the grand scheme of the universe. It emphasizes the fleeting nature of human life, implying that our time on Earth is incredibly brief compared to the vastness of time itself.