How does the author describe the concept of time in "The Poetry of Physics"?

The author describes the concept of time as a relative dimension that is interconnected with space and shaped by motion. This perspective aligns with the principles of modern physics, particularly Einstein's theory of relativity, where time is not absolute but is affected by the gravitational field and the relative speed of observers. Within this framework, time becomes flexible; it cannot be thought of in isolation but must be understood in conjunction with spatial dimensions and the dynamics of moving objects. This interconnectedness highlights how events are perceived differently depending on the viewer's position and speed, offering a richer, more complex understanding of time as it relates to the physical universe.

In contrast, viewing time as a static entity would ignore the effects of motion and relativity. Describing it as an illusion would dismiss its significance in shaping experiences. Exploring time only through philosophical debates would limit the discussion without incorporating the scientific principles that demonstrate its variability and relationship with space.