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Eighteen Writers Explore the Spirit and Significance of Squares Around the World

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City Squares: Eighteen Writers on the Spirit and Significance of Squares Around the World

by Catie Marron

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Language	:	English
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A Photo Of A Bustling City Square With People Walking, Sitting, And Socializing City Squares: Eighteen Writers On The Spirit And Significance Of Squares Around The World

Squares, with their geometric precision and rich histories, have played a pivotal role in shaping the spirit and significance of cities around the world. From ancient gathering places to modern urban hubs, squares have served as vibrant centers for social interaction, cultural exchange, and political discourse. In this article, we present the perspectives of eighteen celebrated writers who delve into the multifaceted role of squares in our lives, exploring their unique character, enduring legacy, and profound impact on human experience.

The Square as a Place of Gathering

"The square is a place where people come together," writes Pico Iyer in his book The Global Soul. "It is a place to meet friends, to exchange news, to watch the world go by." Iyer's words capture the essence of the square as a place of social interaction and community. In many cultures, the square has been the traditional gathering place for markets, festivals, and other social events. The square provides a neutral space where people from all walks of life can come together and interact.

The Square as a Place of Culture

"Squares are often the center of a city's cultural life," writes Robert Pogue Harrison in his book Gardens: An Essay on the Human Condition. "They are home to museums, theaters, and other cultural institutions." Harrison's words highlight the role of the square as a hub for cultural activity. In many cities, the square is the site of major cultural events, such as concerts, exhibitions, and performances. The square provides a unique setting for these events, allowing them to reach a wide audience.

The Square as a Place of Politics

"Squares are often the site of political demonstrations and protests," writes Rebecca Solnit in her book Wanderlust: A History of Walking. "They are a place where people can come together to express their views and to make their voices heard." Solnit's words underscore the role of the square as a place for political expression. In many countries, the square has been the site of major political events, such as revolutions and uprisings. The square provides a physical space for people to come together and demand change.

The Square as a Symbol

"Squares are often used as symbols of a city or a country," writes Alain de Botton in his book The Architecture of Happiness. "They are often the site of important historical events and are often featured on postcards and other souvenirs." De Botton's words highlight the role of the square as a symbol of collective identity. In many cities, the square is seen as a representation of the city itself. The square is a place where people can come together to celebrate their shared history and culture.

The square is a multifaceted space that has played a vital role in human history. It is a place of gathering, culture, politics, and symbolism. The square is a reflection of our collective values and aspirations. It is a space that we can all share and enjoy.

Eighteen Writers on the Spirit and Significance of Squares

1. Pico Iyer, The Global Soul 2. Robert Pogue Harrison, Gardens: An Essay on the Human Condition 3. Rebecca Solnit, Wanderlust: A History of Walking 4. Alain de Botton, The Architecture of Happiness 5. Jane Jacobs, The Death and Life of Great American Cities 6. William H. Whyte, The Social Life of Small Urban Spaces 7. Kevin Lynch, The Image of the City 8. Christopher Alexander, A Pattern Language 9. Jan Gehl, Life Between Buildings: Using Public Space 10. Enrique Peñalosa, How to Make a City Great 11. Richard Sennett, The Fall of Public Man 12. Robert Venturi, Learning from Las Vegas 13. Denise Scott Brown, Learning from Las Vegas 14. Rem Koolhaas, Delirious New York 15. Bernard Tschumi, Architecture and Disjunction 16. Daniel Libeskind, Breaking Ground: Adventures in Life and Architecture 17. Zaha Hadid, Zaha Hadid: Complete Works 1979-2013 18. Bjarke Ingels, Yes Is More: An Archicomic