Meaning: The quote by Rem Koolhaas, a renowned Dutch architect, delves into the concept of influence and how it relates to his work. Koolhaas is known for his unconventional and thought-provoking approach to architecture, and his views on influence reflect this unique perspective.

Koolhaas's assertion that "influence is a very unpleasant subject" suggests that he may find the idea of being influenced by others or having his work influence others to be discomforting. This could stem from a desire to maintain a sense of independence and originality in his designs, free from the constraints of external influence. It also hints at a certain skepticism or wariness towards the power that influence can wield over creative endeavors.

The architect's statement that he deals with influence in a "maybe irresponsible way" indicates that he may intentionally downplay or disregard the impact of influence on his work. This could be interpreted as Koolhaas choosing to minimize the role of external factors in shaping his architectural vision, opting instead to focus on his own creative instincts and ideas. By consciously ignoring the influence, he may seek to maintain a sense of artistic freedom and autonomy in his practice.

Koolhaas's assertion that thinking too deeply about influence would be a "nightmare" and would "tie our hands" suggests that he sees influence as a potential hindrance or limitation to creative expression. By acknowledging the power of influence to constrain and restrict artistic freedom, Koolhaas emphasizes the importance of unfettered creativity and the ability to push boundaries without being unduly influenced by external expectations or norms.

The architect's warning that considering influence would "tie everyone else's hands" underscores the broader impact of influence within the creative sphere. Koolhaas may be cautioning against the pervasive nature of influence and its potential to stifle innovation and diversity in architecture and other artistic disciplines. By highlighting the collective impact of influence, he emphasizes the need for individuals to resist being overly swayed by external pressures and instead forge their own distinct paths.

In summary, Rem Koolhaas's quote offers insight into his complex relationship with influence and its role in shaping creative expression. His reluctance to dwell on the subject, coupled with his assertion of dealing with it in an "irresponsible way," reflects a deliberate choice to prioritize independence and originality in his architectural practice. By challenging the impact of influence and its potential to constrain creativity, Koolhaas encourages a reevaluation of the role of external factors in shaping artistic vision and expression.