In 'Time Travel,' James Gleick explores the fascinating concept of time and our attempts to understand and manipulate it. He delves into the history of time travel in literature and science, weaving together perspectives from physics, philosophy, and pop culture. Gleick unveils the paradoxes and possibilities that arise when we consider time as a pliable dimension. Through engaging anecdotes and thought-provoking ideas, he sparks curiosity about how time travel challenges our perceptions of reality. This book invites readers to ponder the intriguing question: what if we could truly bend time?
By James Gleick
Published: 2017
"Time is not just a river that flows; it’s a complex tapestry of moments, each thread woven with the possibility of what could be. In our quest to understand it, we uncover not only the nature of our existence but also the boundless potential of what lies ahead."
Best Books of 2016 BOSTON GLOBE * THE ATLANTIC From the acclaimed bestselling author of The Information and Chaos comes this enthralling history of time travel—a concept that has preoccupied physicists and storytellers over the course of the last century. James Gleick delivers a mind-bending exploration of time travel—from its origins in literature and science to its influence on our understanding of time itself. Gleick vividly explores physics, technology, philosophy, and art as each relates to time travel and tells the story of the concept's cultural evolutions—from H.G. Wells to Doctor Who, from Proust to Woody Allen. He takes a close look at the porous boundary between science fiction and modern physics, and, finally, delves into what it all means in our own moment in time—the world of the instantaneous, with its all-consuming present and vanishing future.
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“Time is not just a river that flows; it’s a complex tapestry of moments, each thread woven with the possibility of what could be. In our quest to understand it, we uncover not only the nature of our existence but also the boundless potential of what lies ahead.”
Time Travel
By James Gleick
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
James Gleick is an acclaimed American author and journalist known for his contributions to the understanding of complex scientific concepts in a manner accessible to general readers. He is best known for his books 'Chaos: Making a New Science', 'Genius: The Life and Science of Richard Feynman', and 'The Information: A History, a Theory, a Flood'. Gleick's writing is characterized by its clarity, engaging prose, and ability to weave intricate scientific ideas into compelling narratives, making him a prominent figure in popular science literature.
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In "The Time Traveler's Wife," romance and time intertwine as Henry, a man cursed with involuntary time travel, navigates the complexities of his extraordinary condition. His unpredictable journeys often separate him from his beloved wife, Clare, whose unwavering devotion to him spans time and space. As their love story unfolds, readers are drawn into a heartfelt exploration of fate, loss, and the fragility of life’s moments. Each reunion brings both joy and heartache, culminating in a poignant reflection on the enduring nature of love. Will they find a way to bridge the gaps of time, or will their love be forever altered by the ticking clock?
In 'Introduction to Mathematical Philosophy,' Bertrand Russell takes readers on a fascinating journey through the foundations of mathematics and its philosophical implications. He explores concepts such as numbers, infinity, and the nature of mathematical truth, challenging conventional thinking. With his unique blend of clarity and insight, Russell demystifies complex ideas, revealing the profound connections between logic and mathematics. This thought-provoking work not only invites readers to rethink their understanding of numbers but also questions the very essence of reality itself. A must-read for anyone intrigued by the interplay of philosophy and mathematics, this book promises to expand your horizons.
In 'The Time Machine', H.G. Wells introduces readers to a Victorian scientist who builds a machine capable of traversing time. With curiosity as his compass, he journeys into a distant future where humanity has evolved into two distinct races: the peaceful Eloi and the menacing Morlocks. As he navigates this strange new world, he uncovers chilling truths about civilization and human nature. Action-packed and thought-provoking, the novel explores themes of progress, class struggle, and the consequences of human innovation. Will the Time Traveler ever return to the life he once knew?
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In 'Einstein's Dreams', Alan Lightman weaves a tapestry of imaginative stories that explore the nature of time through the dreams of a young Albert Einstein. Each dream presents a unique and captivating reality where time is experienced differently, challenging our conventional understanding. From a world where time is reversible to one where it stands still, these narratives provoke profound reflections on life, love, and the human condition. As Einstein grapples with the implications of his groundbreaking theories, readers are invited to contemplate their own relationships with time. This thought-provoking novel blends science, philosophy, and art into a mesmerizing exploration of existence itself.