Happening Monday

BOOKS

Margaret Wertheim and Jim Carter If a successful “theory of everything” is the holy grail of modern physics, then outsider physicist Carter is surely a knight errant. The self-taught free thinker and subject of the new book “Physics on the Fringe” will discuss his radical theory, based on circlon synchronicity, with the book’s author, science writer Wertheim. Central Library, 630 W. 5th St., L.A. 7 p.m. Free, reservations recommended. (213) 228-7025. https://www.lfla.org/aloud.

Ben Ehrenreich The local writer’s second novel, “Ether,” follows an enigmatic character known only as the Stranger. Dressed in a stained white suit and jazzy lace-up shoes like a Dust Bowl-era entertainer hit with hard times, he’s a fallen god in search of his power, roaming a broken landscape. Ehrenreich, who recently won a National Magazine Award for “The End,” his Los Angeles magazine feature detailing the procedural odyssey from deathbed to six feet under, will read from his book. Book Soup, 8818 W. Sunset Blvd. 7 p.m. (310) 659-3110.

MUSIC

Bob Mould Some of America’s most well-regarded, punk-inspired artists will show how the Hüsker Dü and Sugar frontman’s work has influenced their own lives. Dave Grohl, Ryan Adams, No Age, Best Coast, members of the Hold Steady, comedian Margaret Cho and Grant-Lee Phillips will join Mould to perform from his catalog and talk about how his blistering, noisy, yet melodic and hopeful songs have informed younger artists. Walt Disney Concert Hall, 1111 S. Grand Ave., L.A. 8 p.m. $36.25-$57.25. laphil.com.

ART

Collapse Into Image Drawn from some of the most distinctive media installations of the last few years, this film and video program showcases projects by artists whose work invites new thinking about time, space, actions and materials. The selection includes recent works by Erika Vogt, known for her practice of abstracting images and layering media. REDCAT, 631 W. 2nd St., downtown. 8:30 p.m. $10. (213) 237-2800. https://www.redcat.org.