Books - The Principles of Uncertainty

A book about finding meaning in a perplexing world and understanding oneself through the author Maira Kalman's astute observations that are paired with whimsical illustrations and annotated pictures is perhaps a reminder to end the year on a profound note.

- Aparna Andhare

If you were looking for a literary memento mori, I’d point you to Maira Kalman’s The Principles of Uncertainty. In December, before festivities kick in and New Year resolutions aren’t yet pinned down, you may not need a reminder of the year ending — just like the author, who reads obituaries before breakfast, doesn’t require a reminder of the Holocaust yet has a suitcase of a man fleeing Danzing in 1939 in her living room. However, a profound book certainly helps with reflection and finding peace in turbulent times and The Principles of Uncertainty is undoubtedly perspicacious, as is its author-artist. Maira Kalman is a legendary observer of things. A New York-based artist, illustrator, musician and dancer, her work is regularly on the cover of magazines such as The New Yorker. Her eclectic oeuvre includes books of various genres: children’s books, some on food, on fashion, one even illustrating the handbook for all Englishlanguage writers, Elements of Style! Some of her projects have been turned into musicals and theatrical productions; one at a library (New York Public Library, no less); an alleyway installation of her mother’s pristine closet was shown at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. She collaborates extensively with writers, artists, musicians, all the while asking herself: what is the meaning of it all? The Principles of Uncertainty is an attempt to finding answers.