In the last week I have been in both the Public Library in Boston and the converted rail station, The Grand Concourse, in Pittsburgh and I have a new respect for beautiful public places. These places, accessible to all, should raise anyone's spirits. The Concourse is elegant and beautiful, the Library simple and beautiful and both places give a glimpse into what man and nature have to offer. A quiet hour there is soothing, inspiring and reassuring. We can do some things very well and sometimes that is very good to know.
Our public places have drifted into commercial or sports venues and are hampered by utility and cost. The modern glass and metal architecture raise little other than hackles. Our own homes and work places usually can not relax or inspire us. Perhaps it is the secret of the Italians whose living quarters are never emphasized; they have too many lovely places to go. In our complex world there is real value in simplicity.
These wonderful old structures should be visited by everyone regularly. I would sooner have "make work programs" build and improve beautiful common living spaces than clean the streets. If people spent more time in lovely enviornments they would not need cleaned up after.
No comments:
Post a Comment