Swirling Symmetry - Sandra Delozier Coleman - Bog

Even people quick to say they are not good at,or never liked, math will likely find themselves enjoying this unusual mix of patterned thoughtsand images, where ideas related to math and physics are intertwined with thoughts on love and truth. There are some poems inSwirling Symmetryonly mathematicians may appreciate, but, for the most part, the ideas considered are of interest to us all. Exploring complexideas expressed in the form ofgentlypatternedrhyme, while looking for hidden connections to totally abstract, but consistently orderly,images,mayprovideabrief respite when theworldbecomesjarringly chaotic. Words that flow like waves on a sandy shore, and images that clearly follow rules, can have theemotional effectof creating a senseofpeace and calm, even a feelingthatperhapseverythingdoes have itsproper place in this complicated, and yet amazingly ordered,universe. Readers will discover here poems referencing math conceptsfrom zero toinfinityand physics concepts like event horizons,black holes, and parallel universes. Some poems can be used as teaching tools. Some inspire questions,or defend the right to askquestions. Others give answers so precise that they include equations presented in rhyming mathematical notation. Stillothers present arguments for why some of the greatest of allquestions must forever remain unanswered. Viewed as a whole, there is a pattern in the flow of thoughts from page to page. There is subtle grouping of poems addressing common themes. Some are linked to math or physics concepts. Some map a journey through periods of joy and disappointment. One group celebrates the art of several well-known poets by revealing this poet's heart through another poet's pattern. A celebration of the ages-old appeal of verse to the human psyche culminates in a group of poems obviously written just for the fun of skillfully forcing a few playful images into rhyme! ...