Piet Hein (1905–96) was a Danish poet, scientist, mathematician, and inventor celebrated for his multifaceted contributions to literature, art, and science. Known for his witty, insightful poems and mathematical innovations, he gained prominence as a thinker who merged creativity with intellectual rigor.
Born in Copenhagen, Denmark, Hein attended the Technical University of Denmark but left before completing his degree, choosing instead to pursue a path that combined his passions for mathematics, poetry, and art. His innovative mind was evident early on as he began creating both playful and profound reflections in the form of short, rhymed verses known as gruks—a unique style that would become his trademark.
His most notable work was in the realm of geometry and design. He is renowned for inventing the superellipse, a mathematical shape that became influential in urban planning and architecture. Its practical application can be seen in the design of the famous Sergels Torg square in Stockholm.
As a poet, Hein published numerous volumes of his gruks, with The Soul of the Matter (1942) being one of his most well-known collections. His poems, often composed in simple yet profound language, explore themes of existential thought, love, and the human condition. He also wrote philosophical works that emphasize practical wisdom and embrace the balance between science and the arts.
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by Piet Hein
The road to wisdom?
– Well, it’s plain
and simple to express:
Err
and err
and err again
but less
and less
and less.
—Piet Hein
Topics: Experience
Problems worthy of attack prove their worth by hitting back.
—Piet Hein
Topics: Problems
The road to wisdom? Well, it’s plain and simple to express: Errand err again but less and less and less.
—Piet Hein
Topics: Mistakes, Failures
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