A domino is a small rectangular block of wood or plastic, typically 28 in number. People play games with these pieces by lining them up in long rows and then knocking them over. They can also be used to create artwork and structures such as towers and pyramids. The word domino comes from the Latin domini, meaning “he who leads the way.”
Dominoes are often used as toys for children, and they are easy to play. Simply place a domino on the edge of another, and if it is large enough, the first domino will tip over, and then the next, and so on. This can create very intricate patterns, and some people make domino art with them. When creating domino art, it is important to consider how energy travels from one piece to the next.
When Hevesh creates a new domino installation, she usually starts with a theme or purpose in mind. Then she brainstorms images or words that she might want to use in the design. She then draws a plan on paper of what she would like to accomplish. Her designs can include straight lines, curved lines, grids that form pictures when they fall, or 3-D structures such as towers and pyramids. She test-drafts each section of the installation, and she also films each step in slow motion to check that everything works correctly.
While her installations are complex, Hevesh says that one physical phenomenon is essential to them all: gravity. She explains that when a domino is knocked over, much of its potential energy converts to kinetic energy, or the energy of motion. This energy then transmits to the dominos around it, providing the push they need to tumble over as well. Energy continues to transmit from domino to domino until the entire structure collapses.
Similarly, when we make a commitment to a habit, it often has a domino effect on our lives. For example, if you make a commitment to making your bed each day, it can help motivate you to maintain a clean home. Over time, this can lead to larger changes, such as developing a stronger sense of identity.
As a company, Domino’s emphasizes the importance of listening to their employees and customers. Their CEO, Anthony Doyle, has worked to create a culture of inclusion and engagement. He has listened to employee feedback and has implemented a new college recruiting system, a relaxed dress code, and other changes to benefit the company and its employees.
A variety of domino games exist, from simple scoring games such as bergen and muggins to more complex blocking games such as matador and Mexican train. Some of these games teach children counting and math skills, while others encourage strategic thinking and teamwork. Whether you prefer to compose your novels off the cuff or with careful planning, plotting your story can be a bit like playing domino. Taking the time to understand the domino effect can make your story more compelling and engaging for your readers.