Because of the connection to the arts, I want to reprint the essay here. I adapt it only slightly, chiefly to remove links accessible only from Earth Affairs . My Web site otherwise avoids it scrupulously. Actually, I should thank both art and science that their languages take such trouble to learn. Mathematics scares too many Americans.
Art certainly baffles American politicians.
But then again, that leaves room for me. The other day, along with two hundred very impatient commuters, I caught a ferry to Manhattan. Before long, at least some must have wanted the ride to last forever. In the calm, clear summer light, the city felt as fresh as when it was America's capital. Looming up, in the shadow of skyscrapers, was a mix of new housing and precious landmarks.