My Search for Ramanujan

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The son of a prominent Japanese mathematician who immigrated to the U.S. after World War II, Ken Ono grew up under immense expectations and little praise. In rebellion, he decided to drop out of high school to forge his own path. To gain his father's approval, he drew inspiration from the life of Indian mathematical prodigy Srinivasa Ramanujan, whom his father admired for his unwavering dedication to mathematics, despite facing academic failures. Ono narrates his tumultuous journey through college and graduate school, intertwining his experiences with Ramanujan's story. Key mentors encouraged him to delve into Ramanujan's mathematical legacy, which began with the renowned English mathematician G.H. Hardy, who brought Ramanujan to Cambridge in 1914. Ono dedicated his career to uncovering the profound mathematical truths Ramanujan discovered, which he believed were revealed to him through visions from a Hindu goddess. Ultimately, Ramanujan became a bridge for reconciliation between Ono and his parents. Ono's quest for Ramanujan spans three continents and connects him with mathematicians from the twentieth century and beyond, leading to many intriguing revelations, the most significant of which was a deeper understanding of his own humanity.