The latter half of Brian Greene's non-technical book takes an interesting turn in subject matter, switching from the development and evolution of string theory to its relation to what he refers to as "hidden dimensions". In his last chapters he takes this topic -- which, in some scientific way that I cannot claim to understand, connects back to string theory -- and explores, in a similar way, its implications to the human condition as a whole. This comprehensive study of the theoretical 11th dimension and its relevance to the unification of the twenty first century follows through Greene's technique approaching these especially technical subject matters, by connecting them to everyday life of people. He does this, as mentioned in the previous post, most effectively through his colloquial writing style. However, another aspect to this style that became cleat to its success appealing to the layman is Greene's creative use of metaphors and other analogies. These analogies not only add a creative flair to the writing, but also give an easier understanding to the complexity of his subject matter.
The most effective metaphor to be constantly referred to throughout the book is his comparison of the fabric of space to a quilt. Albeit amazingly simple, this metaphor which compares the very fabric of our universe to the simple stitched fabric of a quilt makes it unquestionably easier to understand the topics as hand. Greene is able to explain the "Newtonian directional physics" that are "law to the relativity of interstellar connectivity" (203) which this metaphor. He explains that "like the quilt, they particles are stitched together. And, very much like the quilt, there are tiny holes which can let other pieces of matter through" (100). This constant relation back to quilt furnishings makes it easier for myself and other audience members to relate to what is being stated throughout the book and what ultimately contributes to its success.
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