Since time is a key part of the OP's question, The Tartar Steppe by Dino Buzzati (published in Italy in 1940 as Il deserto dei Tartari) is an excellent novel ab

Since time is a key part of the OP's question, The Tartar Steppe by Dino Buzzati (published in Italy in 1940 as Il deserto dei Tartari) is an excellent novel about life and time. In other words, the mistakes we often make with how we spend our lives, time wasted without a clear purpose or enjoyment. I read it when I was in my twenties and it had a great impact on me. Now in my early fifties, I'm not sure I would have the courage to read it again.