The substance of fictional architecture is not bricks and mortar but evanescent consciousness. Sometimes, therefore, a door opens onto a hallway impossibly, and the placement of our heating ducts and storage space borders on the irresponsible. I have great trouble, myself, in imagining the floor plans of split-level homes, though I feel they are important sites of the American condition.
In his work "Odd Jobs: Essays and Criticism," John Updike reflects on the essence of fictional architecture, suggesting it transcends physical materials and leans more toward the intangible aspects of human consciousness. He notes that in this conceptual architecture, elements like doors and hallways can appear in strange, unexpected ways, highlighting a certain irrationality in their design. This observation emphasizes how architecture can convey deeper meanings beyond mere structural function.
Updike also expresses difficulty in picturing the layouts of split-level homes, yet acknowledges their significance in embodying aspects of American life. His commentary suggests that while these designs might seem convoluted or impractical, they serve as important markers that capture the complexities of modern living. The interplay between physical structures and the ideas they represent invites readers to reflect on how space shapes experience and identity in contemporary society.
