Memoirs of an Early String Theorist

TL;DR

This paper reflects on the author's five-year journey in early string theory, highlighting personal contributions during its formative years and its enduring scientific allure.

Contribution

It provides a personal historical account of the early development of string theory and the author's role in its emergence.

Findings

Contributed to the foundational development of string theory.

Captured the intellectual excitement of early string research.

Highlighted the lasting impact of early string theory work.

Abstract

I worked on String Theory over a period of five years during the First String Era, the most intellectually satisfying years of my scientific life. One of the early prospectors in the String Theory Mine, I was fortunate enough to contribute to the birth of this subject, which retains after these many years, its magical hold on our imaginations and expectations.