Chapter 9

Seeing all that architecture, all that was magnificent and beautiful in the historical achievements across Europe, I changed my chosen vocation somewhat, and became an architectural historian. I never wanted to be rich, and I have progressed well enough in my field to have earned a living writing about the development of architecture through the ages.

Part of this change in point-of-view came from my visit with the man in Paris—perhaps even the more important part. In taking in the message of his philosophy, and the story contained in that letter—no matter how mystical and passionate the experience of the young man in that letter had been, I felt I saw in a sense the great choice it highlighted.

And I chose.

I became less eager for excitement, became more reflective. One friend even commented rather sourly several years after my return that he thought I had in my soul aged thirty years due to that trip.

“You’re middle-aged now,” was one of the things he said.