The Absolute at Large · Chapter
Endnotes explained
The endnotes provide a brief commentary on the naming of Marek's atomic boiler, noting the inaccuracy of the term 'Karburator' and listing alternative proposed names, while observing that the incorrect name was the one that became widely ad
What happens
The endnotes provide a brief commentary on the naming of Marek's atomic boiler, noting the inaccuracy of the term 'Karburator' and listing alternative proposed names, while observing that the incorrect name was the one that became widely adopted.
Characters to notice
- Rudy Marek
Marek is the inventor of the atomic boiler, which he named 'Karburator'.
Key passages
“This name which Marek gave to his atomic boiler is, of course, quite incorrect, and is one of the melancholy results of the ignorance of Latin among technicians.”
The term Marek chose for his atomic boiler is technically wrong, reflecting a regrettable lack of Latin knowledge among engineers.
Highlights the inaccuracy of the boiler's name and the author's critique of technical education.
“It was, of course, the bad one that was generally adopted.”
Naturally, the incorrect name became the standard one.
Ironically observes that the flawed name gained common acceptance.