Analysis and synthesis

One of my favorite bits of #etymology trivia is that the word analyze means to break down, while synthesize means to put together. This is an interesting window into what it means to understand something analytically: It’s a very real and impactful type of understanding, but by its nature the opposite of holistic.

The importance of the alchemical solve et coagula process as applied to knowledge can probably not be overstated. I’m hoping that the ability to apply a bit more synthesis or coagulation to the writing process will be a feature of this note-taking and publication system.