Mathematics is beautiful in itself; it is delightful when a piece of a structure falls into place, like when you understand or prove certain theorems. But mathematics can be beautiful in a more prosaic way, too, via being used as a tool to generate art of a visual or auditory kind. Fractal images have a special place in the pantheon of art derived from mathematics; I will in particular recommend the gallery I lifted the above image from, as the pictures are of exceptional high quality. Click the image, and enjoy!

Choose

The individual has always had to struggle to keep from being overwhelmed by the tribe. If you try it, you will be lonely often, and sometimes frightened. But no price is too high to pay for the privilege of owning yourself. --Nietzsche

Paul Halmos, R.I.P.

Paul Halmos, author of some wonderful mathematical textbooks and the essay any student should read before even starting on their thesis, How to Write Mathematics, died on the 2nd of October. Short accounts of Halmos' life and works can be found here and here. An interesting man. I have asked the college library to buy his "automathiography" (a biography solely devoted to his professional life as a mathematician) I Want to Be a Mathematician, and look forward to a good read.