| Now and Before |
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| Written by Guest |
| Tuesday, 09 February 2010 11:58 |
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The differences between the modern worlds we live in and the days of long ago are quite significant. If we just look at differences in architecture, we can see that the way things were created, such as a modern chandelier versus a traditional chandelier, the way an ancient Roman building is created versus one of modern times or the differences between cabinets and the things we keep around the house. These differences come about for practical reasons such as the tools and materials available, but also because of the mindset of the civilization which created it. If we look at the design of churches in ancient times, we can see the way the church wished to have their ideas represented. Paintings were designed as "icons", symbols of the stories from the bible that were meant to be worshiped as something from above by the people below. The Sistine Chapel, for example, is a massive roof painted by Michelangelo that creates the feeling of awe within the viewer. In today's society, we live a more fractured lifestyle, in which one dominate way of thinking is not adhered to by everyone. We can see in the artwork of Picasso or Salvador Dali as an ever changing range of styles as they tried desperately to not repeat themselves too much. Someone taking the stylistic risks that these artists took in ancient times would be laughed out of town if not burnt at the stake!
It is often believed that in modern times we have achieved the most advanced way of thinking. This is certainly true in terms of the technology we use, it is now simpler than ever to complete any number of tasks that even as little as a hundred years ago would have taken weeks or months to achieve. However, our understanding of the way our mind is connected to any sort of higher power has been greatly decreased. Many would see this as a good thing as the truth of no existence of a creator has been finally revealed. This outlook obviously has an impact on the way our lives are structured. With no conscious creator to please many have turned to superficiality and consumerism as a way to attain satisfaction. Our trust in science has lessened the role of the church and in the feeling of community within the places we live. Now a large number of our problems are solved by drugs but the rate at which these drugs are being consumed points to the possibility that the problems are not actually being solved. While finding a higher spiritual power may be impossible, it is important that we do not become arrogant about being the most advanced race in history. There are still lessons to be learnt about what those before us have experienced and how they lived their lives. By exploring the artwork, architecture and history of those who came before us, we can gain learn ways to improve our own ways of living in the world. Connor R. Sullivan has recently searched the internet for a traditional chandelier for a kitchen and dining room remodeling job he and his wife are completing. They decided on a modern chandelier for the kitchen. |
