Corb Gets Too Much Credit.

Taking a graduate level architecture history course, I have been exposed to a few thousand buildings throughout recent history. I have been learning a great deal of things from this class and have gotten a lot of inspiration from the many different theories, ideologies, manifestos, and explorations of these various architects. And I, being an avid lover of references, have been barraged with how each building and design references other buildings. This has proven to show how much a design can develop in many different ways from many different people who attach their own personal touch to the idea. But I have this issue. It's the little problem that I now cringe when I hear Corbusier's name. Do you know how many buildings have ribbon windows? A lot. Many of which have nothing to do with Corb or the Five Points of Architecture. Sure its a reference, but why does Corb always get the credit. For example, the smiley face is everywhere, its used in AIM emoticons, in Wal-Mart advertisements, key chains, and all sorts of pop culture items. But does anyone say, "Oh this emoticon references the original smiley face by Harvey Ball!" No. There are so many versions and interpretations and executions and uses for the smiley face. But its reached the point where its intuitive. You have no knowledge of Harvey Ball, or why he made it (Insurance company merger, made it to appease the employees) but now if you want to express happiness you simply show it. :) easy as that. No reference. Sure, Corb may have made it a rule. He may have created the idea in many of his projects. But I don't know if I could say that every ribbon window belongs to him. I think its a very efficient window. Why not create a long window to let in a lot of light and allow for a view without the expense of creating a floor to ceiling window. I know I may be sounding ignorant by expressing this. But its how I am feeling. I think Corb HAS influenced architecture very much and that he does deserve credit for being ahead of his time and designing all of these projects. But please, free the ribbon window. It is not slave to the Corb name. Years have passed and it has been used for completely different reasons. Anyhow, maybe its because I prefer Mies over Corb, who knows. It may just be the hysteria of hearing the name at least 500 times within a 6 week period. I might get over it but for now I just needed to express some uneasiness to regain some sanity. Stay tuned for new posts!