Imperialism’s Mirror
Verse four
Into this neutral air
Where blind skyscrapers use
Their full height to proclaim
The strength of Collective Man,
Each language pours its vain
Competitive excuse:
But who can live for long
In an euphoric dream;
Out of the mirror they stare,
Imperialism’s face
And the international wrong.September 1, 1939 by W. H. Auden
Very recently I enjoyed a evening of convivial conversation in company with friends. I commented to one of our hosts that the interior space of his home, appointments such as the replica saber tooth tiger skull, and the curvature of the hand forged steel Medieval helmet— appeared to be an extension of his life. He agreed. Architecture reveals what we want to say, by the design and manipulation of space. On occasion I must travel into Chicago. I always feel awe at the enormity of the architecture. The strength of collective man. Ein Volk. And it never ends, never reaches completion, a satisfying “enough.” The vain competitive excuse, –a proposal for another building, taller and more spectacular than the rest. Global firm Gensler has proposed a super-tall 2,000 ft Gateway Tower skyscraper for Chicago.
Individuals and societies eventually wake from dreams. Dreams all end.
