The Two Matts

The extraordinary science of creativity with Marcus du Sautoy

Jun 12, 2025
Marcus du Sautoy, Simonyi Professor at Oxford and author of 'Blueprints: How Mathematics Shapes Creativity', dives into the captivating interplay between math and the arts. He reveals how mathematical principles, like the golden ratio, elevate art and music, sparking wonder about why school math isn't as thrilling. The conversation also touches on how narrative structures in literature and sports strategies intertwine with mathematical concepts, showcasing the unexpected ways numbers can fuel creativity.
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INSIGHT

Shakespeare's Mathematical Rhythm

  • Shakespeare uses number and rhythm creatively, such as messing with iambic pentameter to convey meaning.
  • His use of prime numbers like 11 syllables in "To be or not to be" creates emphasis and draws attention.
INSIGHT

Golden Ratio in Nature and Art

  • The golden ratio frequently appears in nature and art, creating aesthetically pleasing proportions.
  • Fibonacci numbers correspond with natural growth patterns and approximate the golden ratio.
ANECDOTE

Messiaen's Prime Number Composition

  • Olivier Messiaen composed "Quartet for the End of Time" using prime numbers to create rhythms and harmonies that never repeat.
  • The primes 17 and 29 keep rhythm and harmony out of sync until the piece naturally ends.
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