In the realm of mathematics, calculus holds a special place as the foundation upon which countless scientific and engineering principles are built. Steven Strogatz’s The Calculus of Friendship offers an intimate glimpse into not just the mathematical world but also the profound human connections that can be forged through a shared passion for calculus. This book captures the essence of a unique relationship between a teacher and his student, chronicled over more than thirty years through letters exchanging their love for calculus.
The Calculus of Friendship narrates an extraordinary bond between a teacher and a student, sustained through decades of correspondence. Their relationship is rooted deeply in their mutual love for calculus, making it more than just a branch of mathematics—it becomes a sanctuary, a game, and a constant in their lives filled with change.
The teacher transitions from the peak of his career to retirement, experiences the highs of international whitewater kayaking, and faces the tragic loss of a son. On the other hand, the student evolves from a high school math whiz to an Ivy League professor, navigates the sudden death of a parent, and deals with the failure of a marriage. Amidst these life-altering events, they find solace and stability in calculus—until a moment when even calculus is no longer enough.
The Calculus of Friendship is much more than an exploration of mathematical concepts. It is an exploration of change, transformation, and the shifting dynamics of a mentor-mentee relationship. Strogatz, a renowned teacher and communicator of mathematics, crafts a narrative that is warm, intimate, and deeply moving. The book brilliantly interweaves the most inspiring ideas of calculus, differential equations, and chaos theory with metaphors, images, and anecdotes that make these complex topics accessible to all readers.
For anyone whose life has been touched by a mentor, The Calculus of Friendship will be an unforgettable and enlightening read. It showcases how mathematics, specifically calculus, can serve as a refuge and a constant amidst life’s turbulent changes. Strogatz’s expert storytelling and deep understanding of both mathematics and human relationships make this book a must-read for math enthusiasts and anyone interested in the profound impact of mentorship.
