Right now vs. always: a small dispute in the Library

Present simple and present continuous, taught by Sophia, argued with by Marcos, and overthought by Philo.

Sophia

Two ways to talk about now, Marcos.

Marcos

There's only one now, Sophia — the one where I'd rather be asleep.

Sophia

Simple present: what's generally true. "The sun rises." "Marcos is lazy."

Marcos

Present continuous: what's happening right now. "I am not listening."

Philo

The Nile always floods in summer. I usually overthink everything. Some things never change.

Sophia

The Library opens at dawn — simple present, for a timetable.

Sophia

Today we're closing early, though — someone is carving his name into the bench.

Marcos

I am not carving anything. I am... admiring the woodgrain. Right now. Temporarily.

Philo

Always, usually, often, sometimes, rarely, never — Marcos, where do you fall on 'doing homework'?

Marcos

Presently? Never. Continuously? Also never.