the towering standing wave that composes the symphony of thought. - David Brin

Some molecules were stable. . . . These became letters in a new alphabet.
They, too, reacted to form still larger clusters, a few of which survived and accrued. . . . the first genetic words.

It’s hard to feel completely hopeless during that special moment when you first catch sight of dawn.

I’m learning, Maia thought. They keep making mistakes and I keep getting stronger.
At this rate, someday I may actually gain control over my life.