Dan Barbilian - Collected Quotes

"As in geometry, I understand through poetry a particular symbolism for representing the possible forms of existence. [...] For me poetry is a prolongation of geometry, so that, while remaining a poet, I have never abandoned the divine domain of geometry." (Dan Barbilian, 1927)  

"I consider myself more of a practitioner of mathematics and less of a poet, and that only insofar as poetry recalls geometry. No matter how contradictory these two terms might seem at first sight, there is somewhere in the high realm of geometry a bright spot where it meets poetry." (Dan Barbilian, 1927) 

"Mathematical research can lend its organisational characteristics to poetry, whereby disjointed metaphors take on a universal sense. Similarly, the axiomatic foundations of group theory can be assimilated into a larger moral concept of a unified universe. Without this, mathematics would be a laborious Barbary." (Dan Barbilian, “The Autobiography of the Scientist”, 1940) 

“[…] the major mathematical research acquires an organization and orientation similar to the poetical function which, adjusting by means of metaphor disjunctive elements, displays a structure identical to the sensitive universe. Similarly, by means of its axiomatic or theoretical foundation, mathematics assimilates various doctrines and serves the instructive purpose, the one set up by the unifying moral universe of concepts. ” (Dan Barbilian, “The Autobiography of the Scientist”, 1940) 

"The domain of poetry is not the entire soul, but only that privileged part where echoes the playing of lyres. It is the place of all intelligible beauty: pure understanding, the honour of geometries." (Dan Barbilian, 1947)

"After all, Greek thought is expressed not only mythically, in fiction, but also directly, in theorems. The gate through which the Greek world may be discussed – and without the knowledge of which, in my opinion, one’s culture can not be deemed complete – is not necessarily Homer. Greek geometry is a wider gate, through which the eye might grasp an austere, yet essential landscape." (Dan Barbilian, 1967) 

" [if a poem] admits an explanation, rationally it admits an infinity. An exegesis can in no way be absolute. A poet provided certain mathematics can give not one, not two, but a great number of explanations of a hidden poem." (Dan Barbilian, 1968) 

"The mathematical works thrall and delight, just like the works of passion and imagination." (Dan Barbilian)

"The Mathematics bring into play spiritual powers which are not much different from those required by poetry and art." (Dan Barbilian)