In Bill Bryson's "A Short History of Nearly Everything," he explores the fascinating concept of human connection to the past. He suggests that our physical bodies are composed of countless atoms that have undergone recycling through various forms throughout history. This notion highlights not just our individual existence but also our link to historical figures and events.

Specifically, Bryson points out that each person might possess atoms that once belonged to notable historical figures, like Shakespeare. This idea emphasizes the profound interconnection of all life and the unity of existence through time, prompting readers to reflect on their place in the grand narrative of the universe.