Ludare est Orare

Today I read a little of The Mathematical Tourist and also a little of Infinite Powers, Steven Strogatz’s book on the history of calculus. The Mathematical Tourist skims over its material very quickly and I was finding it hard to follow in my current state of mind.

I am feeling very detached from my review project just now. Nevertheless, tonight, at the midpoint of Western Christian Holy Week, I’ve been reflecting that, when I am able to apply myself to it, doing mathematics becomes a spiritual practice for me. There is a certain attitude of mind that engages with the grandeur of the universe with both humility and joy. I’ve always called it play, but there may be a better word. At any rate, this play can be a response to any natural or artistic beauty—is there really a distinction?—and the impulse behind any creative work. I think what evokes it is very different for different people. For some people it may well be basketball or cake decorating. For me it is certain natural phenomena, music, and more than anything else, higher mathematics. And for me, this play is also a form of prayer. Engaging with the wonder of creation with humility and joy is also singing a hymn to the Creator. To play is to pray, and nothing inspires play in me like mathematics.