12 Quotes by Edward Frenkel

That’s because, if correct, a mathematical formula expresses an eternal truth about the universe. Hence no one can claim ownership of it; it is ours to share. Rich or poor, black or white, young or old – no one can take these formulas away from us. Nothing in this world is so profound and elegant, and yet so available to all.

As someone told me later, writing papers was the punishment we had to endure for the thrill of discovering new mathematics. This was the first time I was so punished.

It’s rare, he says, that we “encounter a person who asserts vehemently that the mere thought of reading a novel, or looking at a picture, or seeing a movie causes him insufferable torment,” but “sensible, educated people” often say “with a remarkable blend of defiance and pride” that math is “pure torture” or a “nightmare” that “turns them off.