Is The Maniac by Benjamin Labatut a True Representation of von Neumann's Circle?

  • Thread starter Thread starter gmax137
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Book Essay
Click For Summary
The discussion centers around the book "MANIAC" by Benjamin Labatut, which is described as a peculiar work focusing on Johnny von Neumann. Each chapter is presented as a short essay purportedly written by von Neumann's colleagues and wives, including notable figures like Feynman and Morgenstern. Participants express curiosity about how these individuals would react to the interpretations and words attributed to them by Labatut. There is also an interest in the authenticity of the portrayals and whether any of the original writers are still alive to provide their perspective. The conversation highlights the book's unique narrative style and raises questions about authorship and representation in literature.
gmax137
Science Advisor
Education Advisor
Messages
3,146
Reaction score
3,675
Has anyone here read this
https://www.amazon.com/MANIAC-Benjamin-Labatut/dp/0593654471?tag=pfamazon01-20

It is a strange book, seemingly about Johnny von Neumann. Each chapter appears to be a short essay written by von Neumann's colleages and wives. Feynman, Morgenstern, ... As I read this I keep wondering what these purported writers would think of the words Labatut is putting in their mouths. I haven't checked to see if any of them are still living.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Books › Literature & Fiction › Genre Fiction.
 
To some degree, this thread is inspired by PF user erobz's thread "Why do we spend so much time learning grammar in the public school system?" That's why I made a title to this thread that paralleled the title of erobz's thread. I totally disagree with erobz. I created this thread because the curriculum of grammar at Universities is a totally distinct topic from the topic of the curriculum of grammar in public schools. I have noticed that the English grammar of many ( perhaps most)...

Similar threads

  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
4K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
3K
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
Replies
7
Views
17K
Replies
26
Views
18K