Which theme is evident in both Neil deGrasse Tyson's "Death by Black Hole" and Billy Collins's "Man Listening to Disc"?

The theme of humanity's insignificance in relation to the universe resonates strongly in both Neil deGrasse Tyson's "Death by Black Hole" and Billy Collins's "Man Listening to Disc." In Tyson's work, the exploration of black holes highlights the overwhelming scale and complexity of the universe, emphasizing how small and fragile human existence is within this vast cosmos. Tyson often illustrates the extreme forces of nature that can dwarf human experience, provoking readers to reflect on their place in a much larger scheme.

Similarly, in Collins's poem, there is an awareness of individual experience in contrast to the grandeur of the universe. The imagery and contemplative tone invite readers to consider how personal moments and the act of listening to music can feel both significant and trivial in the grand scope of time and space. This reflection on personal experience serves to highlight the broader existential questions about humanity's role in the universe, further underscoring the theme of insignificance.

The other themes, while potentially relevant in broader contexts, do not encapsulate the core essence shared between these two works as effectively. The connection between humanity's place amid the universe remains a powerful and unifying theme that deeply influences the reader's understanding of both texts.