Meaning: Arthur Erickson, a renowned Canadian architect, expressed the rarity and profound impact of great buildings in his quote, "Great buildings that move the spirit have always been rare. In every case they are unique, poetic, products of the heart." This quote encapsulates the essence of exceptional architecture and the emotive power it holds over individuals. Erickson's words highlight the transcendent nature of remarkable buildings, emphasizing their ability to evoke deep emotional responses and leave lasting impressions on those who experience them.

Erickson's assertion that great buildings are rare underscores the exceptional nature of architecture that truly moves the spirit. This rarity can be attributed to the intricate fusion of artistic vision, technical prowess, and cultural significance required to create such structures. Great buildings are not merely functional or aesthetically pleasing; they possess an intangible quality that resonates with people on a profound level. They have the ability to inspire, uplift, and provoke contemplation, transcending their physical form to become symbols of human creativity and aspiration.

The notion that great buildings are unique and poetic speaks to the individualistic nature of exceptional architectural works. Each great building tells a distinct story, reflecting the vision and values of its creators while establishing a dialogue with its surroundings and the people who interact with it. These buildings often serve as poetic expressions, using form, space, and materiality to communicate ideas, emotions, and cultural narratives. Through their design, they embrace the language of poetry, employing metaphor, symbolism, and rhythm to convey meaning beyond the literal and functional aspects of their existence.

Furthermore, Erickson's characterization of great buildings as products of the heart emphasizes the deeply personal and impassioned nature of their creation. Such buildings are born from a place of genuine inspiration, driven by the architect's profound connection to the project and its context. They are infused with the architect's beliefs, values, and emotional investment, reflecting a labor of love that transcends mere technical proficiency. This heartfelt approach to architecture imbues great buildings with a sense of authenticity and soul, endowing them with the capacity to touch the hearts and minds of those who encounter them.

In essence, Erickson's quote encapsulates the profound impact of great buildings as vessels of human expression and creativity. It acknowledges their scarcity, celebrates their unique and poetic qualities, and underscores the deeply personal and emotive roots from which they spring. Great buildings that move the spirit embody the pinnacle of architectural achievement, transcending their physical form to become enduring symbols of human ingenuity, imagination, and the power to evoke profound emotional responses.

In conclusion, Arthur Erickson's quote serves as a poignant reminder of the transformative potential of exceptional architecture and the enduring impact it can have on individuals and society. It invites us to recognize and celebrate the rare works that move the spirit, urging us to appreciate the unique, poetic, and heartfelt qualities that distinguish them as profound expressions of human creativity and aspiration. By embracing the emotive power of great buildings, we gain a deeper appreciation for the profound influence of architecture on our lives and the enduring legacy of those visionary works that continue to inspire and uplift us.