We already know how to talk about architecture by describing its position in the three dimensions of width, height and depth.

(If you need a freshen-up, quickie memory jolt on how we already know these things, click here)

 

Let us remember that the "X" axis is the Breadth of Architecture moving from social to individualist expression. The "Y" axis is the Height of Architecture stretching from grounded foundations to soaring spiritual aspirations. The "Z" axis is the Depth of Architecture diving from the shallow and meaningless to the deeply profound.

Architecture is three-dimensional in theory and in form.

 
Architecture encapsulates space.

 
But architecture does not exist, nor do we, outside the dimension of time.

It's time to talk about time.

 

 

He called this inseparable marriage of space and time the Space-time Continuum. They are one entity, inseparable.

Space-time defines what IS.

 
Try to imagine

 
walking through the door of Chartres Cathedral in France,

forward into the depths of the central nave,

passing the rhythmic clustered columns soaring one hundred twenty feet,

into the dematerialized pointed arches and clerestory,

Into the transept,

 
the center of the Holy Cross,

ending,

 
four hundred twenty seven feet,

 

 

two hundred ten steps,

humble,

falling into the apse where beautiful stain glass

rosary windows face East

and rest.

You couldn't experience this,

or anything else,

 

As three-dimensional beings we perceive time only as a result of memory.

 
We remember what was and what is now. We look forward into what might be:

Review,

Now View,

 

If we had no memory, we would not know time. We would exist only for the moment.

 
Our perception of time is a linear line, always going forward, experiencing the now and remembering the past.

This is how we experience architecture in space:

Space,

through

 

Never mind that the space/time line, the continuum, is curved. We'll explore that wonderfully twisted concept later. It's coming over the horizon.

Meanwhile, go to church.

If the building you worship in doesn't lift you up, doesn't grab your chin and bring it lovingly upward into the height of delight, pray that someday you may, experience.

Blessings!

 

 

P.S. Hickory Dickory Dock. Click upon the Clock.