Musings: Imaginary

These last few weeks, I have been thinking a lot about imaginary things. I just finished the last Harry Potter book, which contained quite a few imaginary (or are they) concepts that are quite intriguing. Wizards and witches, house elves and dragons, and even using magical wands are all interesting and seem to be quite imaginary. Yes, I a Muggle, will probably never see or understand much of Mr. Potter's world, but it doesn't stop me from thinking about what is imaginary.

As I've grown up, my definition of the word imaginary has changed quite a few times. When I was young, I am fairly certain I had an imaginary friend. My mom would probably be able to tell you his name, but all these years later, I have forgotten.

Later in college, imaginary was "I" or the the square root of negative 1. When trying to describe 'I' you need to include some discussion of fractals, like the Mandelbrot set. . In fact, one of my classes in college, had me design a fractal drawing engine. Too bad, I can't find that code. :(

After college, I started reading fiction. Since having stories read to me as a kid, this is the first time I started reading books for leisure. Authors like Michael Crichton, Robert Ludlum, Steven King, etc. all had a place on my bookshelf. Eventually in a few years, I picked up on the Harry Potter fanfare and read the first book (soft cover, bought off the discount rack). Like millions, I loved the intrigue of a possible magical world hidden right amongst our own. "When I grow up, I want to be a (fireman, wizard, IT Professional) ______."

Then my daughter was born. Wow, does that ever change your perspective. Around 2, when she was old enough to talk coherently, she started chatting about her "following animals". These imaginary animals follow her around the house, on trips to the grocery store and down to Grandma's house. Sometimes they would need the door held for them, or they would need their seat belts fastened, sometimes they would ride in a large wagon towed behind the car. Now that she is 5+, the animals don't get mentioned as much any more, but Tinker Bell does makes a few more visits.

While I have grown up and working with computers doesn't leave much room for imagination in this very logical world, I do find that escaping into the imaginary worlds is still fun and relaxing. Be it playing with my daughter, reading (or listening to) another bit of fiction (Science Fiction to Dr. Seuss), or playing computer games all help ease the stress of the day-to-day.

Take a moment and have some fun...