We note the passing of Stephen Hawking, whose contributions to our field cannot be calculated (not even using zeta function regularization). To mention one item beautiful work, that influenced me, and which not everyone seems to know, there is the series of contrasting lectures and dialogues with Roger Penrose (and others): The Nature of Space and Time. So full of insights, and revealing of their different personal axioms, but so understanding and respectful of each other, I thoroughly recommend it in many ways.

A different kind of work, Hawking is the titular star of the most recent installment (the hexagonal phase) of The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy. Also recommended in many ways.