How to do great work (A Mathematician's Apology by G. H. Hardy)

In 'A Mathematician's Apology,' G.H. Hardy presents a justification for the study of mathematics as an end in itself, rather than for its practical applications. Written in 1940, the book is part autobiography and part philosophical treatise, where Hardy argues that the beauty and elegance of pure mathematics, particularly in number theory, justify its pursuit. He contrasts pure mathematics with applied mathematics, which he sees as less elegant and often trivial. Hardy also reflects on his own career, acknowledging that his creative mathematical abilities were waning at the time of writing. The book is a passionate defense of the value of mathematics as a creative and intellectual endeavor.