Frank Lloyd Wright: 'The Lincoln Memorial is related to the toga and the civilization that wore it.'

The Lincoln Memorial is related to the toga and the civilization that wore it.

In his thought-provoking statement, Frank Lloyd Wright draws an intriguing connection between the Lincoln Memorial, the toga, and the civilization that embraced this attire. At first glance, the quote may appear enigmatic, but it holds significant meaning and sheds light on the profound relationship between architecture and the cultural symbols it embodies. Wright's words prompt us to ponder the influence of ancient civilizations on modern design choices and urge us to contemplate the intricate interplay between architecture, civilization, and the collective human consciousness.On the surface, Wright's assertion can be seen as a juxtaposition of the Lincoln Memorial, an iconic symbol of American democracy and Abraham Lincoln's legacy, with the toga, a garment associated with ancient Roman culture. The toga, a flowing and dignified attire worn by Roman citizens, represents not only the physical clothing of a bygone era but also the values and ideals that defined that civilization. Similarly, the Lincoln Memorial stands not just as an architectural marvel but as a powerful symbol of American ideals such as freedom, equality, and justice.By relating the two concepts, Wright touches upon the idea that architecture and design choices are not simply aesthetic decisions but also reflect the values and socio-cultural backdrop of the society in which they are created. Just as the toga speaks to the civilization that embraced it, the Lincoln Memorial serves as a testament to the ideals championed by the American people and their reverence for Abraham Lincoln.Yet, to delve deeper into Wright's statement, it becomes apparent that he introduces a philosophical concept that adds layers of complexity to our understanding. The notion that the Lincoln Memorial is related to the toga suggests a certain timelessness and universality in the way architecture captures and reflects the essence of human civilization. Wright seems to imply that the architectural creations of one era are intrinsically linked to the cultural symbols of another, transcending time and geographical boundaries.This idea of transcendence in architecture aligns with the concept of archetypal symbolism, as advanced by Swiss psychologist Carl Jung. Jung posited that certain symbols and archetypes originate from the collective unconscious, a shared reservoir of experiences and emotions that resides within every individual. These archetypes, such as the hero, the wise elder, or the mother, form the basis for cultural symbols and find expression in various art forms, including architecture.Applying this concept to the Lincoln Memorial and the toga, we can perceive a deeper connection beyond the surface level. The toga, as a cultural symbol, may reflect archetypal concepts inherent in human consciousness, such as the pursuit of justice, wisdom, or ethical governance. Similarly, the Lincoln Memorial encapsulates these archetypal ideals and transmits them across time and space, as if resonating with the collective psyche of a culture or civilization.Through Wright's eloquent quote, we are encouraged to ponder the intricate relationship between architectural design, cultural symbols, and the collective human experience. The toga and the Lincoln Memorial represent different epochs, yet their connection illuminates the continuum of human aspirations, underscored by the shared desire for justice, wisdom, and progress.In conclusion, Frank Lloyd Wright's statement about the relationship between the Lincoln Memorial and the toga introduces a refreshing perspective on architectural symbolism and its ties to civilization. It calls attention to the broader implications of design choices, reminding us that architecture not only serves as a physical representation of a society but also carries the intangible qualities that define the collective consciousness. By inviting us to explore the transcendent nature of architecture, Wright prompts us to question the essence of civilization, the archetypal symbols that underpin it, and the timeless and universal themes that continue to shape our built environment.