Got addicted to architectural travel

Author: Chen Shiliang / Country: Mainland China
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2005-10-01
Features: Travel is a destiny that architects endure the hardships of body and mind yet never tire of pursuing. In recent years, the trend of architectural travel has gradually spread to Taiwan, with more and more people joining tours to pilgrimage to major cities around the world, solely to experience the masterpieces that have consumed the hearts and souls of great masters. Architectural travel is no longer just a privilege for a few. Chen Shiliang, who considers himself addicted to architectural travel, has an insatiable passion for architecture, pursuing it tirelessly for decades. Unchanging in his cheerful and humorous straightforward nature, he is like an impulsive, restless young boy who never seems to sit still. In his eyes, high-tech architecture is like the bubble game he played in childhood, exhilarating and full of life; deconstructivist architecture becomes a clownish, exaggerated spectacle; minimalist architecture resembles a mysterious scene in a puppet theater or a misty forest, sparking endless imagination; and postmodern architecture is like a magic cube spun in the air, charming in every perspective.
Following his previous work, When Buildings Become Postcards, in 2004, Chen Shiliang set off again, continuing his endless journey of curiosity and imagination in the world of architecture. After thoroughly exploring the architectural styles of different places through both open and secret investigations, Chen, with his delicate heart and moving pen, once again treats readers to dozens of witty and vivid architectural essays that introduce the rich faces of contemporary architecture. Then, the timeline rapidly shifts forward, taking readers to the Middle Ages in a picture-story format, detailing the legendary history of the Gothic Cathedral. Next, he delves into several important ancient civilizations in East and South Asia, traveling from Kyoto and the Great Wall to Angkor Wat and the island of Luzon. Not only does he view travel as a part of life but also knows how to savor the essence of architecture and the creativity of great masters. Reading along, one can’t help but exclaim, "This is addictive!" and be filled with constant surprises.
Smoking can be addictive, drinking can be addictive, and even drinking coffee, watching movies, or dating can be addictive. More than that, "travel" can also make one addicted. The meaning of "addiction" is that after a certain period, one feels an intense urge to do something, and if they don’t, they become restless and uncomfortable. My "travel addiction" has the same symptoms: an empty mind, weak limbs, and a loss of will to survive—quite severe. I’m not sure when I contracted this addiction, perhaps from a young age, surrounded by it. I believe my father has the same problem, even saying that only when traveling can he feel the joy of life. I seem to have a similar problem too.
Regardless, contracting a "travel addiction" isn’t necessarily a bad thing. At least it doesn’t harm the body or reputation—mostly just spends money, time, and disrupts the order of life. In truth, it’s all just the mischief of being playful.
A key trait of Shiliang’s writing is its simplicity and readability. Through easy-to-understand language, he has the opportunity to reach non-professional readers. Added to his naturally optimistic disposition, his articles often carry a humorous and satirical tone, making it easy for readers to enjoy architecture without strain.
Finally, he even directly suggests to readers: "Quickly bring the book home, brew a rich cup of coffee, play your favorite music, sit back comfortably, and flip through the pages at your leisure. Let your long-stagnant heart feel moved!"