This archive report was first published on 18 July 2019.
On the surface, 'The Weil Conjectures' by Karen Olsson appears to be a book about mathematics, but it's actually a deeply personal and philosophical exploration of the lives of two brilliant siblings, André and Simone Weil. Published on July 18, 2019, the book delves into the world of mathematics, but also touches on the complexities of the human mind.
Olsson's writing is evocative and engaging, making the reader feel like they're experiencing the thrill of discovery alongside the Weil siblings. She's particularly drawn to anecdotes that highlight the beauty and chance that underlie mathematical concepts. For example, the origin of the letter 'x' in mathematics is attributed to René Descartes's printer, who was running out of letters while producing copies of 'La Géométrie.'
However, the book's focus on André Weil's life and work comes at the expense of Simone Weil's, who is often reduced to a footnote or a diagnosis of 'unhinged.' This is particularly frustrating given the complexity and richness of her life, which is barely scratched on the surface of the book. Simone Weil's influence can be seen in the work of thinkers like Maurice Merleau-Ponty, Iris Murdoch, and Susan Sontag, but this is not fully explored in the book.
Despite these limitations, 'The Weil Conjectures' is a thought-provoking and engaging read that will appeal to anyone interested in mathematics, philosophy, or the human mind. Olsson's writing is lyrical and accessible, making the book a pleasure to read.
