Writing and Seeing Architecture

This work explores the parallels between literature and architecture through a dialogue between architect Christian de Portzamparc and theorist Philippe Sollers, emphasizing the impact of creative expression on society.

Writing and Seeing Architecture explores the intriguing parallels between literature and architecture, two seemingly distinct forms of expression. While literature creates worlds through words, architecture shapes the physical environment we inhabit. The act of reading is a deliberate choice, whereas the impact of architectural design often goes unnoticed. However, authors Christian de Portzamparc, a renowned French architect, and Philippe Sollers, a prominent theorist and novelist, delve into the shared dynamics between writers and architects, revealing unexpected similarities in their relationships with their audiences.

In their engaging dialogue, de Portzamparc and Sollers advocate for a fresh perspective on architectural thought, drawing inspiration from literary traditions that aimed to liberate society through innovative writing. They emphasize the need for new creative guidelines that transcend the constraints of capitalist frameworks. By confronting the intersections of writing and spatial design, they highlight the vital role of intellectuals and practitioners in shaping public discourse and influencing the built environment.

The book also provides insight into the backgrounds of its authors. Christian de Portzamparc is celebrated for his iconic designs, including the French Embassy in Germany and the LVMH Tower in New York City, and he was awarded the prestigious Pritzker Architecture Prize in 1994. Philippe Sollers has made significant contributions to literature and criticism, having published influential works and established the journal Tel Quel, which featured notable thinkers like Jacques Derrida and Michel Foucault. Together, their perspectives enrich the conversation about the interconnectedness of writing and architecture.