- Hansdeep Singh
From the first day of class I was struck by the profound words of
Primo Levi that were narrated to us by Prof. Rosenbaum.
At first, the image conjured was that of an efficient and
instantaneous destruction. It was only later that I begun to think
about
how demolitions actually function and the work necessary to accomplish
the ultimate destruction, in essence, what mechanism
precedes the eventual fall.
Demolitions are carefully planned, contained, widespread, systematic,
and remove not only the physical external structure
but the very foundation the building once stood upon. In bringing
down a structure, explosives are placed strategically so that
the building collapses unto itself. Explosives are often embedded in
the support columns and foundation of the structure. By
blasting the core of a structure, by stripping it of everything it
relies on for support, the structure ultimately gives in to itself.
In the
end, both body (structure) and soul (foundation) have been irreparably
eviscerated.
