John Elder Robison writes, “Being a savant is a mixed blessing, because that laser-like focus often comes at a cost: very limited abilities in nonsavant areas. Some of my designs were true masterpieces of economy and functionality. Many people told me they were expressions of a creative genius. And today I can’t understand them at all. My story isn’t sad, though, because my mind didn’t fade or die. It just rewired itself. I’m sure my mind has the same power it always did, but in a more broadly focused configuration.” I have heard Temple Grandin say the same thing, and my friend who played the
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