A pearl of wisdom ...
Variational methods for the solution of problems of equilibrium and vibrations
R. Courant
As Henri Poincaré once remarked, "solution of a mathematical problem" is a phrase of indefinite meaning. Pure mathematicians sometimes are satisfied with showing that the non-existence of a solution implies a logical contradiction, while engineers might consider a numerical result as the only reasonable goal. Such one sided views seem to reflect human limitations rather than objective values. In itself mathematics is an indivisible organism uniting theoretical contemplation and active application.