I am not really sure what to say about this eclectic compilation of random thoughts and advice. Michael Bierut is obviously an intelligent man and successful designer, and I admire his writing skills. However, I have yet to see a singular message from which to create a collective thought process to put into words for this blog. I find some of what he says fascinating and even highly admirable but overall, nothing earth shatteringly inspiring. Maybe it is the day itself or his writing style but I find that he is well enamored of himself for the both of us.
There are some points I found interesting. Those crosswalk buttons not working is something I’ve thought about. I’m not surprised that so many don’t work and find it funny that when I really thought about it, that I would still press those buttons. Mainly because it gives me something to do as I wait impatiently to cross the street. Some rule applies to the elevator close door button, I love the action of pressing it enthusiasticaly until the door closes because it makes me feel in control and thus the placebo effect is true in my case.
His essay on being famous was interesting but it mainly made me think about how i despised the idea of being famous in all its forms. I value my anonymity with near unruly desperation. Those that would seek fame and expansive fortune make no real sense to me. In so many way I see fame and wealth to be the downfall of man and the true killer of compassion. While I am off the topic of design it relates because I will not want to be famous designer, I mainly want to use those skills to help. While that sounds cliche and naive in certain circles, it is my dream, my truest life’s goal. Therefore I end with a statement from Bierut’s mother that I found the most agreeable of his statements, “It’s nice to be important, but it’s important to be nice.”