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A Personal Reflection on Favored Geometric Figures

A Personal Reflection on Favored Geometric Figures

By the wonderful Ruth.


Ruth Chan is an illustrator residing in Brooklyn with her husband, daughter, and dog. She both writes and illustrates children’s literature. For Cup of Jo, Ruth has also contributed pieces on travel, pets, loss, OCD, pregnancy, and her all-time favorite band. And check out her beauty routine!

P.S. Questions I’ve been pondering since becoming a parent and during every movie night.

**A Personal Reflection on Favored Geometric Figures**

Geometric figures serve as the foundational elements of both natural and artificial settings. From the symmetry of a snowflake to the clean lines found in contemporary architecture, shapes affect our perceptions and interactions with the environment. While geometry serves as a universal dialect in mathematics and design, individual preferences for specific figures often express deeper psychological, aesthetic, and functional tendencies. In this article, I will delve into my favored geometric figures, the motivations behind these choices, and their manifestations in different areas of life.

### 1. The Circle: Epitome of Unity and Continuity

Among all geometric forms, the circle occupies a special place in my affection. Its smooth, unbroken curve signifies unity, eternity, and balance. Unlike polygons, the circle has no start or end, which imparts a feeling of completeness and equilibrium.

**Why I Favor It:**
– **Aesthetic Attraction:** The circle’s symmetry and absence of angles create a visually pleasing effect.
– **Symbolic Meaning:** It frequently symbolizes wholeness, cycles, and timelessness—ideas that resonate with me.
– **Practical Use:** In design, circles are adaptable. From wheels to clocks, they combine beauty and functionality.

**Manifestations in Life:**
– I lean towards circular styles in home decoration, such as round mirrors and tables.
– In artistic endeavors, I’m captivated by mandalas and circular designs that promote tranquility and concentration.

### 2. The Triangle: Energetic and Resilient

The triangle is another shape that resonates deeply with me, especially the equilateral triangle. It conveys both stability and strength, while simultaneously suggesting movement and purpose—qualities I hold in high regard.

**Why I Favor It:**
– **Structural Stability:** Triangles are the most stable of the polygons, often utilized in engineering and construction.
– **Symbolic Significance:** The triangle may signify growth, aspiration (pointing upward), or equilibrium (with three equal sides).
– **Adaptability:** It can embody both stasis and motion depending on its placement.

**Manifestations in Life:**
– I enjoy integrating triangular designs in graphic arts and apparel.
– The triangle’s representation of progress and elevation aligns with my aspirations and ethics.

### 3. The Hexagon: Effectiveness and Balance

The hexagon is a shape I have grown to admire over time. Commonly found in nature—most notably honeycombs—it symbolizes efficiency and connectivity.

**Why I Favor It:**
– **Natural Efficiency:** Hexagons fit together flawlessly, covering an area without gaps, which is why bees utilize them.
– **Visual Appeal:** The six-sided symmetry is more intricate than a square or triangle, providing a distinctive aesthetic.
– **Symbolic Representation:** It frequently embodies harmony and balance between the individual and the collective.

**Manifestations in Life:**
– I am attracted to hexagonal tiles and designs in interior spaces.
– In technology and data representation, hexagonal grids combine functionality and style.

### 4. The Spiral: Development and Change

While not a conventional geometric shape in the Euclidean framework, the spiral intrigues me. It appears in galaxies, shells, and even human DNA, symbolizing growth and transformation.

**Why I Favor It:**
– **Natural Existence:** Spirals are abundant in nature, often adhering to the Fibonacci sequence.
– **Symbolic Meaning:** They signify evolution, expansion, and the inward or outward journey.
– **Aesthetic Flow:** Spirals possess a dynamic, flowing essence that captivates the eye and the intellect.

**Manifestations in Life:**
– I am drawn to spiral patterns in jewelry and artwork.
– The symbolism of the spiral resonates with my belief in continuous learning and personal growth.

### 5. The Square and Rectangle: Order and Reliability

Though not as emotionally stirring as other shapes, squares and rectangles offer a sense of order and dependability. They are fundamental in architecture, design, and common items.

**Why I Favor It:**
– **Functional Utility:** These shapes are straightforward to construct and highly effective.
– **Symbolic Significance:** They denote stability, sincerity, and a grounded nature.
– **Familiar Presence:** Much of our built environment relies on rectangular shapes, providing comfort and predictability.

**Manifestations in Life:**
– I depend on rectangular arrangements for organizing information and spaces.
– In digital design, grids formed by squares and rectangles support clarity and organization.

### Conclusion

Geometric shapes transcend mere mathematical forms—they act as visual languages conveying ideas, emotions, and values. My personal preferences for circles, triangles, hexagons, spirals, and rectangles reveal a combination of aesthetic appreciation, symbolic significance, and practical utility. Whether manifested in art, architecture, or daily life, these shapes shape my perception and interaction with the world. Recognizing our connections to specific shapes can provide insights into our identities and values, transforming geometry from a mere science into a profoundly personal journey.