This reading discussed the concept of exorbitant city and generic city and their relationship. In my understanding, the exorbitant city is complex and overwhelmed while the generic city has a weak identity. Abbas mentioned that images are designed images to boost their tourist trade. Some cities invite stararchitect to design significant architectures and wish to replicate the “Bilbao Effect”. These kinds of architectures soon become more and overwhelm the city. These cities are considered as an exorbitant city. When you zoom out and look at the world as a global city. These cities become generic. “Image of the city” makes the invisible. The complexity makes the city generic. Admittedly, cities become more complex under the creation of their images. However, I think cities still have their uniqueness either on the cultural side or history side.
Chow Wai Yin / 3035695426
Appreciate your attempt at differentiating Abbas’ notions on the exorbitant and generic city, albeit your explanation could be strengthened with more specific explanation. For starter, ask yourself again: What makes a city “generic”? What renders the image of the city “invisible”? What do you mean by “complexity”? Consider these aspects and attempt to explain them in your own words.