People tend to think that mathematicians always work in sterile conditions, sitting around and staring at the screen of a computer, or at a ceiling, in a pristine office. But in fact, some of the best ideas come when you least expect them, possibly through annoying industrial noise.

Nunca se sabe, con ningún problema matemático, lo que se necesitará para solucionarlo. Esperas y rezas por ser capaz de hallar una solución bonita y elegante, y descubrir, quizá, algo interesante a lo largo del camino.

Where there is no mathematics, there is no freedom.

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.

It was as though applied mathematics was my spouse, and pure mathematics was my secret lover.