To ground our big ideas in simplicity and creativity, we used a playful exercise we called Neanderthal poetry. The idea was to take the complex, often jargon-filled language of “composable science” and break it down into its simplest, clearest terms—language that anyone could understand. But this exercise wasn’t just for fun (it was though!). It revealed the core principles of what we’re trying to build: a scientific ecosystem that is accessible, collaborative, and adaptable.

The poems brought out essential values like reuse and remixing—science as small, modular pieces (the bits) that others can easily build upon. They highlighted the importance of recognition and attribution, making sure that credit is clear and contributions are visible. Themes of transparency and trust emerged, with a collective desire for open systems where work can be verified and skepticism can be addressed. The poetry emphasized real collaboration means making it easy for anyone to join, contribute, and build on the work.

There was a strong undercurrent of iteration and evolution, showing how progress often comes from trying, learning, and improving over time. And importantly, the poems injected a sense of playfulness and fun—reminding us that the future of science communication doesn’t have to be dry or bureaucratic; it can be energizing, creative, and joyful.

Split ideas in parts, make it quick. Share with all to help us learn. Run the code, track the choice, mix them up to help us learn. Put in graph, meet new friends to help us learn.

Here are a few snippets that captured the spirit of the exercise Table 1:

• “Peeps make small bits of work—a pic, chart or code. Each bit is made to be used and built on by other peeps.”
• “We have bit. She have bit. They have bit. I have bit; me use bit from him. She used bit from me. They used bit from her. One bit good. Two bit great. Lots of bits.”
• “Break down each piece we know. Share with all friends. Mix and build new tales. All give help and praise.”
• “Split ideas in parts, make it quick. Share with all to help us learn. Run the code, track the choice, mix them up to help us learn.”

Through these simple, punchy lines, we surfaced the both values and core concepts of the movement we are building together.