The author talked about the disappearance of history reflected in architecture and some understanding of colony under the context of Hong Kong.
The disappearance of history is occurring commonly since the whole society is under development due to economic and political activities and mood. As architecture is not only stationary image, it reflects tradition and culture. In the article, the vanished Kowloon Walled City and the preserved Hong Kong Cultural Center, Flagstaff house and Repulse Bay Hotel are presented. The author persists that disappearance can go together with concern of presence and preservation can increase the sense of identity of Hong Kong culture.
It is shown that Hong Kong is a East-Western City with a mixture of tradition and modernity, not only “a bigger Chinatown”. Due to the specific context of Hong Kong, the dependency of Hong Kong is a reasonable art and the word “colony” is not so negative. To understand this kind of urban space, exploring Hong Kong thoroughly but not visibly is rational. The author also gives an example that allegory can be appropriate to experience Hong Kong’s urban space, though I am not that satisfied with it.
Yan Zipeng
3035637826
A solid reflection on Abbas. If you are not satisfied with Abbas’ example that allegory can be appropriate to experience Hong Kong’s urban space, what would you suggest instead?