On Numbers and Repetition

Humans are naturally creatures of patterns and echoes. We observe an order in the chaos that surrounds us, plucking shapes and structure out of Nature’s growing brilliance. We then repeat this order, mimicking the forms of life within our own constructions. Nor do I merely speak of buildings and of monuments. Poems are constructs, as are rituals, as are memory tricks and mnemonic devices. Chants and songs are works of verbal architecture, fashioned out of nails and beams of sound into a greater whole.

Perhaps I speak as someone overly obsessed, but I believe that repetition is essential to all parts of human knowledge. We seek repeating even in that which cannot repeat, cataloging prime numbers precisely by their indivisibility. Yet not only are the sciences subject to repetition. Our holiest of moments are enshrined with that which comes and comes again. Consider the Rosary, with its four decades, each containing one Our Father, ten Hail Marys, one Glory Be amended by the Decade Prayer. Echoes follow echoes, deepening our journey through the shadowed woods of faith.

Repetition seems to soothe the mind, working almost like a magic spell. Consider how to say a thing again can make it stronger, even on against the facts of things. We repeat statements to convince ourselves of them, and on occasion we succeed. Note that repetition is not always healthy- it can be used for good or ill. Its power is undoubtable, however, yet its universal nature makes it often overlooked. That which we do instinctively is often not appreciated.

Take notice, then, of repetition in your life, even when it comes in unexpected places. Such strong enchantment should not be ignored.