In Margaret Atwood's "Oryx and Crake," the author explores the vastness of space and the perception of stars. Although they appear to be nearby, they exist at unimaginable distances, highlighting the disconnect between our experience and the true nature of the universe. This juxtaposition serves as a metaphor for the relationships and communications we desire but often find lost in time and space.

The quote reflects a deeper commentary on human connections and the passage of time, suggesting that what we perceive may not be an accurate representation of reality. The stars, with their ancient light, symbolize messages from the past that, despite their beauty, lack an immediate sender or meaning in the present, prompting readers to ponder about absence and lost communication in their own lives.