READING THE PAPER

SQUARING THE CIRCLE

Embossed cellulose pulp, paint, iron, 22 x 22 x 1.25 inches

Squaring the circle is a problem in geometry first proposed in Greek mathematics. It is the challenge of constructing a square with the area of a circle by using only a finite number of steps with a compass and straight edge. Others summarize the phrase to mean

attempting the impossible, but still striving without the possibility of success.

Attempting to Square the Circle has been tried for ages.

Dante mentions the problem in Paradiso, Canto XXXIII:

"As the geometer his mind applies

To square the circle, nor for all his wit

Finds the right formula, howe'er he tries..."

FINDING AN END TO WAR SEEMS AS DIFFICULT AS TRYING TO SQUARE THE CIRCLE,

AND SO THIS BEARS REPEATING,

WE ARE THE WORLD

(click the this title to view original 1985 video)

This song continues to resonate after 40+ years and its making was

documented by film maker Bao Nguyen in the 2024 Netflix release,

The Greatest Night in Pop.

Watch a recent PBS interview with Bao Nguyen about the making of his film,

click here.