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Complex Numbers
Complex Numbers
A complex number is expressed in the standard form a + bi, where a and b are real numbers and i is defined by i^2 = -1 (that is, i is the square root of -1). For example, 3 + 2i is a complex number.
The bi term is often referred to as an imaginary number (though this may be misleading, as it is no more "imaginary" than the symbolic abstractions we know as the "real" numbers). Thus, every complex number has a real part, a, and an imaginary part, bi.
Complex numbers are often represented on a graph known as the "complex plane," where the horizontal axis represents the infinity of real numbers, and the vertical axis represents the infinity of imaginary numbers. Thus, each complex number has a unique representation on the complex plane: some closer to real; others, more imaginary. If a = b, the number is equal parts real and imaginary.
Very simple transformations applied to numbers in the complex plane can lead to fractal structures of enormous intricacy and astonishing beauty.
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So today I'm going to discuss actual writing again.
https://ideas.ted.com/helpful-advice-for-aspiring-writers-of-all-ages/
Helpful advice for aspiring writers of all ages
I find when something is targeted at "all ages," it often ends up being infantile. Lowest common denominator and all that. Let's see here...
Being a writer is all about expressing your unique perspective with feeling and originality, not about having a huge vocabulary or getting published, says author Jacqueline Woodson.
Let's get this out of the way first: You don't have a unique perspective.
Neither do I.
In the time BI (Before Internet), you only had to be unique among a small group in order to stand out. Two things have happened in the last 50 years to change the landscape entirely: the population of the planet quadrupled, and we all started talking to each other. Now, in order to the the "best," you're competing with 7 billion other people. It can't be done. Not only that, but even if you're not concerned about "best," with that many people, statistically, someone else shares your opinions and talents.
And second, there's no such thing as "originality," unless you want to make up your own language.
“Write something good, and feel good about writing it.”
in response to the question “What’s the goal of writing when you’re 15?”
I know when I was 15, I felt good about my writing. Boy, am I embarrassed. Fortunately, none of that tripe survived.
“Writing is about narrative language and creative language and being able to get a point across in a way that is not ordinary. More than having a large vocabulary, one needs a large vision and be able to see the world in a different way than other people see it.”
Despite what I said above, I think this is decent advice as far as it goes -- though it doesn't express how someone without this ability for perspective might gain it.
If it’s possible, set limits on the initial feedback you receive
“When I first write something, I show it to three people I trust. I tell them: ‘Tell me every single thing you love about it.’
Doesn't really work on this site, unless you have a group set up for just that.
Being a writer means being a re-writer
Yeah, that's where I always stumble.
“Whenever kids start asking me about their stuff getting published, I’m like, ‘That’s not what you should worry about. You should worry about writing the best piece that you possibly can.’ Writing is such a process.
And again, not bad advice. But the promise of the headline - "for all ages" - fails, as usual. |
© Copyright 2024 Robert Waltz (UN: cathartes02 at Writing.Com). All rights reserved. Robert Waltz has granted InkSpot.Com, its affiliates and its syndicates non-exclusive rights to display this work.
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