...The beauty of New York rests on a completely different base. It's unintentional. It arose independent of human design, like a stalagmitic cavern. Forms which are in themselves quite ugly turn up fortuitously, without design, in such incredible surroundings that they sparkle with a sudden wondrous poetry. ... Unintentional beauty. Yes. Another way of putting it might be 'beauty by mistake.
In Milan Kundera's "The Unbearable Lightness of Being," the author reflects on the unique allure of New York City, suggesting that its beauty is not the result of conscious planning or artistic intention. Instead, it emerges organically, much like the natural formations found in caves. The city's aesthetic is characterized by unexpected combinations of elements that, while individually lacking charm, collectively create an enchanting atmosphere that captivates the observer.
Kundera emphasizes...