The Leibniz Language Lyrics

Lyric discussion by dctucker 

Cover art for The Leibniz Language lyrics by Le Butcherettes

Bruno (1548-1600) was a mathematician who was considered a martyr by later mathematicians for his belief in the existence of a plurality of worlds and other opinions contrary to the catholic church.

Leibniz (1646-1716) was a mathematician who discovered infinitesimal calculus independent from Newton (1642-1727). Leibniz notation uses a long S to denote integrals, while Newton developed convenient notation for first and second-order derivatives known as dot notation. Leibniz managed to publish his theories earlier than Newton by nine years.

Calculus involves the act of slicing things up and putting them back together. A planet is composed of many hearts.

As a whole, this song could be interpreted as a monologue by Leibniz to Newton. The punctuation of "Bruno was a classic!!!" a reference to prior art, and its abruptness could reflect the tension added by the accusation of plagiarism. The chorus seems to describe the different perspectives from which the two mathematicians approached their theories of calculus, and bemoans the fact that Leibniz had a difficult time reestablishing himself after the plagiarism controversy.

Song Meaning