March 20, 2016

 

Sir Andrew Wiles
Mathematical Institute
University of Oxford
Andrew Wiles Building
Radcliffe Observatory Quarter
Woodstock Road
Oxford
OX2 6GG

RE: The world needs more nerds like you.

Dear Sir Andrew,

This is my very first fan letter, which I am writing to congratulate you on the news of your being awarded the Abel Prize by the Norwegian Academy of Science and Letters for your proof of Fermat’s Last Theorem, thereby cracking a 350-year-old mathematical mystery.

I noted with interest that you had worked on this for seven years, before publishing your solution 22 years ago, and that it has taken all this time for your work’s veracity to be recognized and rewarded.

What a gladdening story of perseverance, ingenuity, good thinking, passion, hard work and patience. The world needs more of these qualities all round, and you should be a role model to young people making their way in the world for your modus operandi as well as for your lasting contribution.

Congratulations, again and best wishes for more auspicious successes!

Sincerely,

Robin Whitney
Park City, UT

robin@oneletteraday.net
Never underestimate the difference you can make.