I don't think "annoyed" describes my reaction. But inevitably that question comes from non-mathematicians, and the puzzle is how best to answer. Especially when you're speaking to people who have not experienced the joy of beautiful math before. But it can be a great pleasure to introduce someone to beautiful math for the first time. If people have standard examples they like to use, or think would be good to use, as beautiful mathematics for beginners, what are they? —Dan ----- Anyone being annoyed by this question when you presented something you found beautiful in its own? I certainly have. Plus, being a bit diplomatically challenged (ask Neil!), I'd like to hear a way of answering that question without appearing to be rude. "I don't care one bit" does not work, as I verified empirically. -----