What we perceive is the reality that we know of.

Oftentimes, architecture forms the way we see the world; each section is designed to cover or reveal something. On the flip side, the structure itself is a symbol, as Sudjic proposes in The Edifice Complex. He gives strong evidence as to the connection between meaning and architecture. Furthermore, he uses various examples, one being The Mother of All Battles Mosque, to explain his standpoint. Sudjic argues that this building is built to glorify Sadam Hussein, to symbolize his control over Iraq, and to mask the grotesque reality of the country under his power.

In reality, powerful rulers are the ones who are able to finance architects to build structures that contain meaning. Because political leaders are the ones with the power to build, architects design pieces according to the owner’s requests. I find that many rulers want to construct an image for the public to remember them by. It does not come as a surprise that they would have the edifice complex. As a result, architecture serves as the perfect tool to translate this message because buildings can stand longer than humans. As Sudjic mentioned, “stone and steel last longer than flesh and blood…buildings are a historical marker that show the passing of time, and the changes of regimes” (13). Famous structures built for political leaders often contain a meaning, or even a fabricated history that is to be passed down. Although these buildings often encompass the architect’s personal style, obvious symbolism are often related to the leader for which it was built. Other examples that Sudjic proposed further serve to strengthen this argument.

The meanings that lie beneath these structures are able to add value to them. People often look for symbolism in each event or building. The meaning serves as a connection between what they see, and what they want to see. Some people may say that buildings are just buildings, created to serve its literal purpose. However, others who come by it would surely inspect every section to create a connection between what they know and what they see; this is the meaning that Sudjic argues in this passage.

Reality is what we perceive. Writers often incorporate their perspectives into history textbooks. Similarly, architects and political leaders have incorporated their opinions into the structures, creating a symbol and meaning behind it all.

– Melody Mark