SECTION 21 How I tried to teach the Theory of Three Dimensions to my Grandson, and with what success

Grandson, whose casual remarks on the meaning of 3, 4, and even 5 dimensions had met with the approval of the Sphere? This idea was, at first, with enthusiasm; but I soon discovered that, while the theory was comprehensible enough, its application baffled me. Every attempt to demonstrate the concept of upward, not Northward, by analogies from the world of sight, totally failed; for in the realm of Flatland,
the very idea of “upward” as opposed to “Northward” or any other “ward” was incomprehensible.

Despite my confusions, I attempted to share my revelations with my Grandson, hoping his fresh perspective and previous curious comments on
dimensions might ease the teaching process. As my plans unfolded, the moment came to put my theory to the test. Calling upon my Grandson, I
endeavored to enlighten him about the three dimensions, employing various means of practical demonstration to elucidate the theory of
“Upward, not Northward.” My efforts, initially met with interest, soon turned to dismay as he struggled to grasp the abstract concept utterly foreign to his two-dimensional perception.

The more I persisted in my explanations, invoking geometrical figures and the example of the Sphere’s visitation to enhance my arguments, the more bewildered he became. His inability to perceive or even to imagine the upward dimension I so ardently described, made our conversations increasingly frustrating for both. Towards the end of our discussions, my Grandson’s temper flared, and he reproached me for what he deemed nonsense, claiming it impossible to believe in the existence of anything beyond the familiar two dimensions of Flatland.

Resolute yet disheartened by this initial setback, I contemplated the monumental challenge that lay ahead in my mission to educate Flatland about the third dimension. Recognizing the herculean task of altering the ingrained perceptions of an entire society, I pondered over the
methods I could employ, considering the resistance and skepticism I encountered from my own Grandson.