By James Randi
Martin Gardner would have been 100 years old today - October 21.
Knowing Martin as well as I did, I can tell you that he'd be hugely embarrassed by the attention given him posthumously here on SWIFT. He was a very private man, shy and reclusive. It took me many months to gain his trust -- and his affection -- but it was among the better investments of my time, I assure you. He shared with me opinions, bons mots, and a few secrets that I treasure.
I don't know that Martin Gardner ever spoke before an audience. Everything he wanted to communicate with the outside world can be found in his generous list of books and commentaries, and that -- alone -- provides us with a lifetime of research.
Oh, I miss him greatly, and I encourage SWIFT readers to sing his praises -- but with proper respect, of course...
Here is the post that includes the piece I wrote for Martin a long while ago.
Editor's Note: I declare this Martin Gardner Day!
Martin Gardner would have been 100 years old today - October 21.
Knowing Martin as well as I did, I can tell you that he'd be hugely embarrassed by the attention given him posthumously here on SWIFT. He was a very private man, shy and reclusive. It took me many months to gain his trust -- and his affection -- but it was among the better investments of my time, I assure you. He shared with me opinions, bons mots, and a few secrets that I treasure.
I don't know that Martin Gardner ever spoke before an audience. Everything he wanted to communicate with the outside world can be found in his generous list of books and commentaries, and that -- alone -- provides us with a lifetime of research.
Oh, I miss him greatly, and I encourage SWIFT readers to sing his praises -- but with proper respect, of course...
Here is the post that includes the piece I wrote for Martin a long while ago.
Editor's Note: I declare this Martin Gardner Day!
