Number 9: Cecil Balmond

Number 9 - The Search for the Sigma Code by Cecil Balmond was purchased simply to delve into a great designer's fascination with numbers. Engineering (aeronautical) was my first path upon graduating high school before I decided architecture would be more interesting but I have always been fascinated by the science between good engineering for far more reasons than pure logic. I always felt there was a certain mysticism in numbers, a religious transcendence of belief that values of certain variables, when combined, could form something almost entirely different. What made me a geek in school remains interesting to this day (although I hate excel spreadsheets for various reasons, least of them math related).

It is this magic of numbers that Cecil speaks of profoundly yet almost concealing the punchline of a cosmic joke. Number 9 uses the parable of a character named Enjil as a vehicle for simplifying the complex path of numerical interactions and attempting to recognize and disseminate the many natural patterns of mathematical calculations were are exposed to each day. It is recognizing these patterns that is fascinating. In reconstructing them we are able to realize an inter connectivity that requires a certain ability to believe. I hesitate to use the word religious again, but at times there is a suspension of disbelief required as the reader begins down the path towards understanding.

The book is simple, almost cute in design. Storytelling weaved into basic proofs illustrated with various diagrams showing the connections and beauty of the relationships of numbers allows one to feel the main character's torn indecision at achieving success by exemplifying what his "teachers" wish him to be or by expressing what he naturally is, someone who understands that it takes the simplicity of a childlike mind to unlock the secrets of the universe.

I fantasize that this book will reach the hands of a young student who is just beginning their exposure to higher math lessons and who is able to live out the wonder that is youthful exploration of the sciences. Where would I have been if I had learned that math was a toy to be played with instead of a series of proofs and equations to memorize and recite?

Well, this blog would be a whole lot different.