There is one atom per cubic meter of the universe?
The result, of course – after we move away from all the averages – is a lot of empty space.
I know that we can not even fathom the scope of this.
But does all of this cold universe point to anything?
Is there a whisper?
My puff of existence hopes so.
Everywhere darkness and the presence of the unseen appalls. We estimate now that only one atom dances alone in every cubic meter of intergalactic space. I blink and squint. What planet or power yanks Halley’s Comet out of orbit? We haven’t seen that force yet; it’s a question of distance, density, and the pallor of reflected light. We rock, cradled in the swaddling band of darkness. Even the simple darkness of night whispers suggestions to the mind.
-Annie Dillard, Pilgrim At Tinker Creek