On Stage, Physicist-Alum is Impressive Storyteller

Theoretical physicist Jim Gates '73, PhD '77 is well known in the physics world for his work in supersymmetry, which attempts to show how general relativity and quantum mechanics can both be explained within a single theory. Now he's also making a name for himself in storytelling circles.

In a 15-minute piece told in front of a live audience, Gates recently recounted a trip he took to Iceland in 1999. He was there for a conference, and because we don't want to spoil it, we'll just tell you that his story involves him wandering shirtless around a mountain, reflecting on his identity, his past--and, suffice it to say, there's a fair number of references to MIT.

Listen to the story by downloading the podcast from iTunes. Or you can stream it from here.

You may also want to check out other stories produced for The Moth, an acclaimed not-for-profit organization dedicated to the art and craft of storytelling.