Life is more important than architecture.
Oscar NiemeyerRead
We need to feel that life is important; we need that fantasy so we can live a little better.
Interpretation
This quote emphasizes the importance of finding meaning in life through imagination and ideals.
Oscar Niemeyer's quote highlights the innate human desire to perceive life as significant and worthwhile. By fostering a sense of fantasy or idealism, we can enhance our daily experiences and navigate the challenges of existence with a more hopeful and enriched perspective, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling life.
In practice
This quote can be used in a motivational speech to encourage people to find joy in their lives.
Life is more important than architecture.
I deliberately disregarded the right angle and rationalist architecture designed with ruler and square to boldly enter the world of curves and straight lines offered by reinforced concrete... This deliberate protest arose from the environment in which I lived, with its white beaches, its huge mountains, its old baroque churches, and the beautiful suntanned women.
Here, then, is what I wanted to tell you of my architecture. I created it with courage and idealism, but also with an awareness of the fact that what is important is life, friends and attempting to make this unjust world a better place in which to live.
When you have a large space to conquer, the curve is the natural solution.
I was attracted by the curve β the liberated, sensual curve suggested by the possibilities of new technology yet so often recalled in venerable old baroque churches.
Curves are the essence of my work because they are the essence of Brazil, pure and simple.
Jumping from boulder to boulder and never falling, with a heavy pack, is easier than it sounds; you just can't fall when you get into the rhythm of the dance.
One approaches the journey's end. But the end is a goal, not a catastrophe.
I've learned that making a 'living' is not the same thing as 'making a life'.
Opposition is a natural part of life. Just as we develop our physical muscles through overcoming opposition - such as lifting weights - we develop our character muscles by overcoming challenges and adversity.
I donβt want my thoughts to die with me, I want to have done something. Iβm not interested in power, or piles of money. I want to leave something behind. I want to make a positive contribution - know that my life has meaning.
Your life is meant to be an epic story. How you think, perform and live today is part of that script.
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