Gary 8/29 I suffer from Disharmonious Harmony

As we creep forward into postmodern culture theory, I noticed how many different ideas that came from everyone in our class. Some agree, some disagree, while others take certain elements to form their own conclusions. I have always loved math simply because it is not subjective. 2+2=4......period. Don't argue it, just accept it. I'm sure that De Saussure can find some reason to argue this equation, but I don't want to even go there.

Did language come before thought, or thought before language?? I replied that thought has to come before language. I thought about my answer first. If speech came before thought, then I'm not responsible for saying certain things to my wife. "Think before you speak!"....I'm sorry, that's impossible because speech comes before thought. Signs have replaced many words in our society. We have even created "international" signs that can be recognized around the world, regardless of dialect. We look at these signs everyday and react to them without uttering a word. We have eliminated speech, we see, think, react, and it's become a natural reaction.

Jencks and "The Emergent Rules" is an excellent piece to read and discuss. The slide show captured many of canons that he outlined in his article. I know that our tour of downtown Orlando will include a multitude of examples of "Disharmonious Harmony".

In my opinion, it is important to realize that some of the changes caused by postmodernism, have resulted in positive ways of research, teaching, architecture, etc. I am a lover of historical buildings and houses. I currently own a 1910 Victorian house that I am in the process of restoring. Modern building theory and material has enabled me to rebuild this house much better than it was 100 years ago. Architectural details originally created out of fresh sawn pine are replaced by exact duplicates created with man made materials impervious to insects and nature. Care has been taken to recreate each piece so even the most experienced eye cannot tell the difference. The house will look exactly like it did in 1910, but it will enjoy the benefit of materials created by man to withstand what nature sends it's way.

Unfortunately, my slow progress has my house fall into the category of "Disharmonious harmony"!