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We Shine Forever: A Mathematical Exploration of Poetry

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Chapter 1: The Fusion of Poetry and Mathematics

Recently, I had the pleasure of releasing a collection of poems, and I eagerly presented a copy to a dear friend. His response was, “I appreciate it, but I’m more inclined toward numbers than words.” This made me reflect, as I believe a life devoid of poetry lacks vibrancy.

What constitutes poetry? At its core, I perceive it as a creative articulation of our observations about the world. Traditionally, this is conveyed through structured language. As a medical student, I’ve come to realize that mathematical formulas can also embody poetry, offering succinct insights into the universe’s mechanisms.

Motivated by my friend's remarks, I felt inspired to craft a poem tailored for those with a mathematical inclination. Presented in the style of a mathematical proof, this piece reveals a profound truth: our actions resonate eternally, illuminating existence long after we are gone. This notion was sparked by a line from the song “Saturn” by Sleeping at Last:

You taught me the courage of stars, before you left

How light carries on endlessly, even after death

Utilizing the Stefan-Boltzmann Law, I derived my own equation-poem titled We Shine Forever.

Stefan-Boltzmann Law:

P_net = Aε (T^4 — T_0^4)

Where:

  • P: Power emitted
  • ε: The Stefan-Boltzmann constant = 5.7x10^–8 Wm^2K^–4
  • T: Absolute temperature of the object
  • T_0: Absolute temperature of the environment
  • A: Area of the emitting body

This formula elucidates the net radiation emitted by an object. However, we focus solely on the energy released by the object itself. By excluding the environmental temperature, the equation simplifies to:

P = Aε (T^4)

Every object with a temperature above 0 Kelvin radiates thermal energy. The average human body temperature is 37°C, which converts to 310.15 Kelvin, indicating that humans emit radiation. Objects with temperatures below 1000 Kelvin mainly emit heat in the infrared spectrum, traveling at light speed until they encounter a surface that reflects or absorbs them.

Consequently:

D_R = cT

Where:

  • D_R = distance traveled by radiation
  • T = time in seconds until it meets an object
  • c = speed of light (299,792,458 meters per second)

If the light never meets an object, then T approaches infinity. In this scenario, D_R also becomes infinite, suggesting that the infrared radiation emitted from our bodies could theoretically exist indefinitely in the universe. Thus, even posthumously, our lives, our deeds, and our very essence will continue to shine within the cosmos.

The first video, "Endless Shine," explores the concept of everlasting light and existence, emphasizing the beauty of life beyond death.

Chapter 2: Eternal Radiance

As we reflect on our existence, it's essential to recognize that our contributions leave a lasting impact.

The second video, "SHINE FOREVER (Official Music Video)" by Sons Of Wākea feat. I.A., embodies the theme of eternal brilliance, celebrating the enduring nature of our light.