This book gives a kaleidoscopic view of the life of a mathematical scientist. It aims to provide an impression of how multifaceted and fascinating such a life can be, in relation to other scientists.

Much of the book can be read without any background knowledge of mathematics, but here and there brief indications of the author’s own work are included as stepping stones in the narration. It contains a gallery of remarkable personalities and of historical accounts not available elsewhere. And the author’s intense interest in Richard Wagner’s operas occasionally shines through.