Writing and Designing

This has been my own internal debate for years: should I ditch writing so that I could design more? Or should I leave design and follow my passion for writing?

I have loved writing since I was a fetus; but with that I also had a fascination for the arts. I decided to tap that 'art' within by taking up architecture. Along the way, I discovered that designing something functional and realistic is a hell lot of work. I encountered so many pitfalls - more discouragement than uplifting moments actually. I really don't know if I could pull this off. I only have four semesters more in architecture school to prove myself. But so far, I am surviving…

I also took the opportunity to explore my love for writing when I joined a writer's workshop last summer. There I experienced more negative criticisms regarding my writing than positive ones. Actually, I think they were all negative. I discovered that my writings, of which are products of my own enlightening moments, were actually amateurish compared to those who really know how to write. I found the connection when one of the jurors compared my poetry to an impressionistic painting – made quickly, without much thought.

Indeed, I always consider both writing and designing lightly. I do not have much patience to work on one thing. I always want to finish it fast so that I could go on to the next…

I was reminded of the fact that if I want to write something that would really create an impact – a flawless and planned impact – I have to take the time to think, write, edit and proofread it. If I want to design something feasible, there should have been a strong research base regarding the proposal plus hours, days or weeks of drafting and rendering of its translation.

Every single aspect of that writer's workshop reminded me of the architect's studio. And whenever I work on my plates, I remember my approach to writing. At first, I thought I have everything it takes to be good. I realized how I lack in so many things. I just couldn't rely on what I have at the moment – I have to search for more. But when the time comes that I have to give something – be it an essay or an esquisse – I just have to give it my best shot.

But is it possible to be good in writing as well as designing? Is it really possible that both of these seemingly different worlds can coexist with each other, specifically in my own life?

Daniel Libeskind, on an episode in CNN, said that writing is indispensable to his architecture. He made a sculpture and wrapped it around with strips of his writings to express this valuable concept in his life. It was uplifting to know that one of the world's star architects epitomized the balance I have been yearning for. It kind of breaks the paradigm that when you are an architect, you cannot be ever good in writing.

Frank Lloyd Wright, in the book Living Architecture, also made a point about the arts, sciences, religion – typically the different aspects of life are actually more intertwined than separated.

This made me think: Is it possible that I can pursue design excellently without giving up something precious to me also, which is writing? Would the time, resources and opportunities permit?

I am still to find out…