Those who know their quantum mechanics will be aware of Heisenberg’s uncertainty principle, which dictates that the more precisely one physical property is known, the less precisely the other can be known. The specifics of the principle have to do with equations and electrons and measurements of velocity; the vagaries of it, however, can be fruitfully co-opted as a metaphor.
On this end, look no further than artist/illustrator Maira Kalman’s Principles of Uncertainty, a compendium of stories, photography and paintings that touches on everything from Vladimir Nabokov to taxidermy to Kitty Carlisle Hart. Kalman, the author of twelve children’s books, is as good at the prose game as she is at painting. The book is an encylopedia of charming objects and thoughts; a universal favorite and an instant classic if there ever was one.
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this post is great for the simple fact that the manager who bought your books at the strand today is in it(Principles of Uncertainty). assuming that i’m right in my assumption that you’re the girl who sold books at the strand today. (Juergen Teller)