Sticks

Abstract

Our task is to form a geometric construction theory that models what we can do with an inexhaustible supply of toothpicks. It should be clear that in order to do the modeling, we must first have some familiarity with what it is we are to model. Therefore, we should first play around with stacks of toothpicks just to see what we can do with them. Paper and pencil is just not satisfactory; straws or even long, thin strips of paper will serve the purpose. Reading about toothpick constructions is not the same thing as discovering for yourself some of the things that follow. Since the results of this chapter are not used later, you can go on to the next chapter now and read this chapter after you have had a chance to play with toothpicks.

“and you are as stiff as a stick. Dull. Conventional and repressed. Tied and trammeled. Subdued, smothered and stifled. Squashed, squelched and quenched.” [So say the dot.]

“Why take chances,” replied the line without much conviction. “I’m dependable. I know where I’m going. I’ve got dignity!”

The Dot and the Line

Norton Jester