The first of several newsletters explores the Aether (pronounced “ether”). We’ll explore how it was understood for thousands of years, how it was dismissed for a century, and how it has returned in a new form with a couple of important modifications, yet maintaining the essence as described by Aristotle.

The aether is an unseen material, a mathematical construct in its current form, that permeates the entire universe. It is present everywhere, including in the vacuum of space. It serves as the base layer of living and nonliving things—matter and energy. Although it may sound like the Force described in Star Wars, it is not.

No matter the scale at which we observe the universe, from the tiniest subatomic particles to the vast cosmic expanse, the aether manifests as a wave. When examined at lower resolutions, these waves appear as currents. The concept of currents remains consistent even when approached from a metaphysical perspective. To simplify the idea, envision living one’s entire life submerged beneath the sea’s surface.

This is why John O’Donohue’s quote grows in its power as one’s understanding of the aether expands. The companion video below is a beautiful music video that demonstrates the sophisticated science of waves and currents as music — brilliantly executed. Enjoy.

This week’s photo features the land marked by the power of water currents.

Now … know the photograph.