Quote by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
Mathematicians are like Frenchmen: whatever you say to them they translate into their own language and forthwith it is something entirely different
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Summary
This quote humorously highlights the characteristic of mathematicians to interpret any idea or statement through the lens of mathematics, creating a new concept that may differ from the original intent. It suggests mathematicians have a unique way of seeing and interpreting the world, transforming any conversation or idea into a mathematical context. Despite the comical comparison to Frenchmen, the quote emphasizes mathematicians' ability to perceive and process information in a distinct and abstract manner.