From near-symplectic constructions to trisections of 4-manifolds

TL;DR

This paper provides an expository overview of the development of trisection theory for smooth 4-manifolds, highlighting collaborative efforts and key ideas in the field.

Contribution

It offers a comprehensive exposition of the author's collaboration with Rob Kirby on the foundational aspects of trisections in 4-manifold topology.

Findings

Introduction of trisection concepts for 4-manifolds

Connections between near-symplectic structures and trisections

Clarification of the role of Kirby's work in this development

Abstract

This is an expository account of the author's collaboration with Rob Kirby leading up to the theory of trisections of smooth 4-manifolds. This article was written for inclusion in an upcoming issue of Celebratio Mathematica dedicated to Rob Kirby's mathematical work.