Math in Prose

Studying math, to me, has always been like reading a story book without going into the literature. As far as I’m concerned, math is a tool that can be used to solve problems, not as a study of abstract concepts and rigorous arguments.

But now, I pretty much need to study math in all its abstraction before having a clear idea of how it can be applied. That’s like walking into a war zone without knowing which side I’m on, or even why I’m there in the first place.

Anyone who has done this will understand my need to grumble. So please allow me to say, 

This is painful.

If only I could find a book that explains financial mathematics in prose (i.e. plain English, not Greek), even if every mathematical proof needs to be written with a 5,000 word essay. If only the book also links the significance of every math concept to its financial relevance. Or better, if only I’d wake up tomorrow with a full appreciation of the beauty and elegance of the mathematical language.

Fulfil my Chinese New Year wish, pretty please?