Chapter 4: Buildings on Disappearance: Hong Kong Architecture and Colonial Space
At the beginning and the end of the chapter, Abbas references and quotes Walter Benjamin, firstly, “In the convulsions of the commodity economy we begin to recognise the monuments of the bourgeoisie as ruins even before they have crumbled.” (p. 64) Then, “To paraphrase Walter Benjamin, architecture would be in ruins even when-especially when-the monuments that make it up have not crumbled.” (p. 90)
I think that these references represent Abbas’ critical opinion on the Architecture in Modern times and meaning of space and place. Although Hong Kong has had a rich history in colonialism, it’s development and redevelopment have cause it to part from its previous identity. Buildings have been retained and kept well, but only the shell has remained, the significance it had before has been taken away. This applies to many of the repurposed buildings in Hong Kong, the clock tower in Tsim Sha Tsui or the Star Ferry Pier in Central.
The definition of space relies heavily on the social interactions and intersections that we have and they are always changing.
Abbas, M. A. (1997). Hong Kong: Culture and the politics of disappearance (pp. 63-90). Hong Kong: Hong Kong University Press.
Kuang Yi Chin
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Great summary and reflection of Abbas’ critical commentary on ideas of preservation. A thoughtful inclusion also in your concluding line of Certeau’s reading.