Nikola Tesla Books
IN SEARCH OF NIKOLA TESLA to the observed phenomena but also to the observer, the scientist and his perceptions, consciousness and the relationship between his thought and the language he uses. These goals, Dave felt, had to be approached in an oblique and patient way; there was no need to rush things or write down his thoughts in the form of a book or scientific paper. I looked forward to the arrival of my friend and spent the intervening time polishing my report on Tesla power transmission. Early on Friday afternoon I left my office and headed home. The day had moved into late afternoon when I heard someone at the front door. Dave Schrum stood on the doorstep, a zipped-up bag in one hand and a collection of brown paper bags in the other. 'It looked like a nice day so I walked from the bus.' He pushed past me into the hall. 'Do you mind if I put these in the kitchen?" 'These' proved to be the collection of brown paper bags containing nuts, lentils and chickpeas. My friend looked down at me as if to gauge my reaction. 'I've become more interested in the textures of food than in flavours and smells. If you don't mind I'll get started and cook for myself.' I laughed and made some remark about his vital bodily fluids not being able to survive on such a diet and sat down to watch. As Dave busied himself with the preparation of his evening meal, we began to chat. Once Dave had transferred his magical mixture from the pan to his plate I said: 'There's something I'd like to talk to you about, Dave,' and handed him some papers. âIt's taken up most of my time for the past few weeks.' David glanced at the papers for a moment then set them down beside his plate. 'I'll look at them later,' he said. After his meal Dave asked if he could go up to his bedroom and lie down. 'I'll take this stuff with me and try to read it.' I went back into the living room, selected Bach's Brandenburg Concertos and began to wait. In several hours I assumed that Dave must have gone to sleep so I made my own way upstairs, but his door opened and he poked his head out. 'I think I'd better go for a walk. Could you tell me the best way?" I gave him some general directions, then headed for my own bedroom. As I was getting into bed, I heard the front door slam, but I was long asleep before Dave returned. 99
