VOL.94/2026.05

One-Liner Quotes

 

A Time to Discover the Stars Within Us

 

 

2026.05

 

 

 

The statement "there are stars within us" is more than just a poetic metaphor. It is a wondrous fact offered to us by both science and the humanities. As astronomer Carl Sagan once said, we are beings made of the remnants of dead stars, or "stardust." In fact, the calcium and iron in our bodies are pieces of stars that were forged inside a star long ago and eventually reached us.

 

In philosophy and psychology, a "star" is often symbolized not merely as a celestial body but as a unique light dwelling within human nature, a guiding signpost that helps us keep our way even in the dark. Therefore, the idea that "there are stars within us" reminds us that just as countless stars in the night sky shine with different brightness and colors, we too are beings who harbor our own unique light and dreams. Furthermore, it makes us realize once again that we are part of a universe intimately connected to all existence.

 

Where Did All These Stars Come From is the first picture book in the "Books of Tomorrow" series, created to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Borim Press. Author Lee Seong-pyo, who demonstrated a style of restrained tones and the beauty of empty space in his previous works, continues that same thread in this masterpiece. As if swimming through the invisible path of the wind, the author's brushwork is infinitely light and free. Gazing at the illustrations alone calms a restless mind and brings a refreshing sense of clarity to the heart.

 

Paper comes from trees, and trees grow from the soil. In the end, the homeland of paper is the soil. The cover, which allows one to feel the texture of paper directly, is also part of the experience of encountering the elements of stars. Along with the gentle touch of the cover, the author speaks to us, asking, "Where did all these stars come from?" These words feel like a question: "When was the moment you discovered a star?" The author points to moments like playing in the water, when a cool breeze blows over a grassy field, or when the sky is incredibly blue. Of course, the answer will be different for everyone.

 

Nevertheless, the "star-shining moments" we remember are likely pleasant memories that bring a smile to our faces whenever we think of them. Nature, which is always by our side, and the people we love. We would call the fleeting moments spent with them "happiness." In that sense, this is a picture book that contains the joy of life—fully exploring, sensing, and remembering the origins of happiness.

 

 

 

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Written by Jung Hae-sim (CEO of Kamome Picture Books)

The author operates a picture bookshop for adults, offering curated recommendations through Tarot readings.