The Power of Words on Cityscapes: Inscribing Letters on Buildings
Summary
In this article, we explore the impact of writing on cityscapes and how it tells the story of a city. We discuss the power of inscribing words onto buildings and cityscapes, citing examples such as the Hollywood sign and the Lincoln Memorial. We also reflect on how the human brain is tuned to see edges and boundaries, making writing on buildings a powerful tool for simplifying the cityscape.
Table of Contents
- The Power of Inscribing Words on Cityscapes
- The Impact of Writing on Buildings
- The Significance of Writing on the Wall
The Power of Inscribing Words on Cityscapes
The act of inscribing letters on buildings and cityscapes is not just about putting information somewhere, but also about putting art. The speaker recounts their experience of stumbling upon a pedestrian overpass with writing extolling the virtues of the city in Portland, Oregon. This reminded them of an episode of the podcast 99% Invisible where the host discussed the power of inscribing words onto a cityscape. The speaker also recalls finding writing on an arch in Florence, Italy, which translated to “the ancient center of the city restored from age-old squalor to new life.”
The Impact of Writing on Buildings
The speaker researched the area and discovered that the arch used to be a dump but was rebuilt into a place for cafes, shops, and a hotel. This reflects how cities tell their own stories and how the human brain is tuned to see edges and boundaries, making writing on buildings a powerful tool for simplifying the cityscape. The speaker notes how signage is prevalent in cities, but for those who do not understand the language, it becomes more like art than information.
The Significance of Writing on the Wall
The act of having writing on the wall is significant because it serves both practical and aesthetic purposes. It not only provides information but also adds to the beauty of the cityscape. The speaker believes that inscribing letters on buildings and cityscapes is a powerful tool for simplifying the cityscape and telling the story of a city.
Conclusion
In conclusion, writing on buildings and cityscapes is a powerful tool for simplifying the cityscape and telling the story of a city. It not only provides information but also adds to the beauty of the cityscape. The impact of writing on buildings and cityscapes is significant, and it serves both practical and aesthetic purposes.
