In the early 20th century, a popular anecdote suggested that Albert Einstein's thoughts on gravity were triggered when he witnessed a workman falling off a roof in 1907. This tale, while intriguing, has been deemed apocryphal and lacks a factual basis. Einstein himself clarified that he was merely contemplating the nature of gravity while seated comfortably in a chair, highlighting that his insights were the result of introspection rather than a dramatic event.

The story reflects the common tendency to embellish historical narratives to make them more engaging. In reality, Einstein's groundbreaking ideas came from deep contemplation and intellectual exploration. Bill Bryson’s book, "A Short History of Nearly Everything," emphasizes the significance of curiosity and thinking in the development of scientific theories, reinforcing that profound discoveries can stem from simple moments of reflection.