In Margaret Atwood's novel "Oryx and Crake," a character emphasizes the enduring nature of art in the face of civilization's collapse. He argues that when societies crumble to dust, it is art—comprised of images, words, and music—that survives. These forms of expression hold the essence of human meaning and significance, reflecting the creativity and imagination that define humanity.

This perspective highlights the importance of artistic endeavors, suggesting that they are the ultimate legacy of human civilization. When everything else is lost, it is the imaginative creations of people that carry forward the essence of what it means to be human, making art a vital aspect of our existence.