How is naturalism reflected in "A Man Said to the Universe"? The idea of the man talking to the universe reflects the romantic ideal that each person is unique and special. The man’s insistence that he exists supports the idea that society has a significant role in forming the individual. The universe’s response to the man reflects Darwin’s theory of natural selection, since the universe tells the man he is not important. The universe’s response to the man presents a cynical view of the significance of humankind.