The Legend of von Neumann (1973) [pdf]
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A 1973 biographical essay details John von Neumann's legendary mathematical brilliance and broad impact.
The essay, by mathematician Paul Halmos, recounts the life and work of John von Neumann (1903-1957). It highlights his extraordinary childhood abilities, dividing eight-digit numbers at age six, mastering calculus by eight, and his phenomenal memory, such as memorizing a telephone book column. Von Neumann made foundational contributions to set theory, quantum mechanics (his 1932 book remains standard), operator theory, game theory, and computing. He was a professor at Princeton's Institute for Advanced Study. The piece includes anecdotes about his wit, speed (solving the fly-puzzle by summing an infinite series), and occasional absentmindedness.
What commenters are saying
Commenters express deep admiration for von Neumann's singular genius and breadth across fields, with some ranking him even above Einstein and Planck in 20th-century influence. Several recommend the book "The Man from the Future" and note the remarkable concentration of Hungarian Jewish scientific talent in his era, known as "The Martians." A brief discussion about perceived gatekeeping against polymaths is tempered by the recognition that others of von Neumann's caliber face little real discouragement. One comment humorously notes his dangerous habit of reading while driving.