I like the thought that what we are to do on this earth is embellish it for its greater beauty so that oncoming generations can look back to the shapes we leave here and get the same thrill that I get in looking back at theirs - at the Parthenon, at Chartres Cathedral.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Building should embellish the earth to inspire future generations as past works inspire us.
- In plain terms
- Create beautiful works today so people in the future feel inspired by them.
- What can you take from it?
- Build with legacy and beauty in mind for future generations.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What will we leave behind?
- How do I want to be remembered?
Another view
Future tastes may not value current works as much as we expect.
More from Philip Johnson
I am a whore and I am paid very well for high-rise buildings.
Permalink to quote #5 I believe in juxtaposition of the arts.
Permalink to quote #7 The people with money to build today are corporations -- they are our popes and Medicis. The sense of pride is why they build.
Permalink to quote #4
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