User:Thijshijsijsjss/Gossamery/99 Variations on a Proof
- Obtained: 2024-03-07
- I own this book in physical form; approach me if you're interested to take a look; still looking for a pdf
99 Variations on a Proof (Ording, 2019) is a book presenting the multiplicity and situatedness of mathematical practises through a series of non (non-)proofs for the same problem. These proofs range from traditional (e.g. 6 Axiomatic, 13 Reductio ad Absurdum, 40 Induction) to visual (e.g. 3 Illustrated, 39 Origami) to fictionalized (e.g. 43 Screenplay, 65 Tea). Every proof is accompanied by an explanation that elaborates not only on the proof, but also on the context of it. They provide a glimpse of mathematics not just as the results on paper, but as the human practise of it.
I had been vaguely aware of this book before stumbling upon it in Leeszaal. I have found it to be insightful, poetic, puzzling, touching. It it a powerful, playful representation of a field that, from within, is often archaic and hierarchical. This method might be applied elsewhere, too.
There is a relation to the listmaking exercises we have been doing during SI24 (on the back: 'According to Molière there are many ways to declare love [and] lists five [...]'). Perec's An Attempt at Exhausting a Place in Paris, might have a different feel and goal, but sees similarities at the same time.
In December 2023, I wrote a text by what I like to think of as 'axiomatic writing'. I've had lingering motivation to return to this writing style at some point. Reading axiomatic proofs surrounded by fictional and poetic pieces in this book, has reemphasized its power to me.
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