"The universe is made of stories, not of atoms"

Muriel Rukeyser’s assertion that “The universe is made of stories, not of atoms” invites us to reconsider the fundamental building blocks of reality. While science describes existence in terms of physical matter, atoms, molecules, forces, human experience is woven through with narratives. The material universe provides the foundation, but it is storytelling that animates and interprets the world, giving it meaning beyond the sum of its physical components.

Stories are how humans process experiences, communicate knowledge, and transmit culture. Civilizations are remembered as much for their myths, legends, and collective histories as for their architectural or technological achievements. The tale of Achilles and the siege of Troy, for example, endures long after bronze shields have rusted away. Personal and collective identities are constructed through the stories we inherit, share, and revise; these narratives shape our perceptions, values, and aspirations.

Beyond the grand epics, daily life is steeped in storytelling. When people recount their day, justify their choices, or make sense of their suffering, they weave events into narratives that search for cause, consequence, and significance. These stories become the lens through which reality is interpreted and understood. In moments of crisis, people often reformulate their personal narratives, seeking coherence and hope amid chaos. The universe, therefore, is not only what physicists describe but also the ever-evolving network of meanings created by human imagination and dialogue.

Rukeyser’s words highlight both the necessity and the power of narrative. Stories are bridges between isolated experiences, forging empathy and understanding. They allow for participation in realities beyond direct experience, expanding the boundaries of identity and connection. While atoms build the tangible world, stories build the invisible architecture of meaning, making the universe a living tapestry woven from the countless narratives of its inhabitants.