In the broad light of day mathematicians check their equations and their proofs, leaving no stone unturned in their search for rigour. But, at night, under the full moon, they dream, they float among the stars and wonder at the miracle of the heavens. They are inspired. Without dreams there is no art, no mathematics, no life.
Interpretation
This quote emphasizes the balance between logic and creativity in mathematics and life.
Michael Atiyah's quote highlights the dual aspects of human endeavor, particularly in mathematics. In the brightness of day, mathematicians rigorously analyze and verify their work, ensuring accuracy and precision. However, at night, they allow themselves to dream and explore the limitless possibilities of the universe, which fuels their inspiration and creativity. This interplay between rigorous discipline and imaginative exploration is what sustains not only mathematics and art but also the essence of life itself.
In practice
This quote can serve as motivation for students struggling in math, reminding them to balance study with creativity.
If you attack a mathematical problem directly, very often you come to a dead end, nothing you do seems to work and you feel that if only you could peer round the corner there might be an easy solution. There is nothing like having somebody else beside you, because he can usually peer round the corner.
I was faced with a choice: to deny my addiction and embrace that 'comfortably numb' but 'magicless' existence, or accept the burden of insight, take the road less travelled, and embark on the often painful journey to discover who I was and where I fit.
Improvising is wonderful. But, the thing is that you cannot improvise unless you know exactly what you're doing. That's a kind of paradoxical thing about improvising.
By trying to understand everything, everything makes me dream
If you think about disaster, you will get it. Brood about death and you hasten your demise. Think positively and masterfully, with confidence and faith, and life becomes more secure, more fraught with action, richer in achievement and experience.
Resolved, to study the Scriptures so steadily, constantly and frequently, as that I may find, and plainly perceive myself to grow in the knowledge of the same.
You never get over losses. I've never gotten over one loss I've had in my career. They always stick with me.
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