STEPHEN BAYLEY
The best definition of ‘classic’ is something that is permanent and universal. Which is to say, of lasting appeal and appreciated by everybody. The Parthenon would, therefore, be a good and appropriate example. But, often, the circumstances giving rise to classic designs were quite the opposite, being temporary and particular. Even peculiar. Here’s the sweet mystery of creation: there is very little rational about it. Genius cannot be managed or predicted, but circumstances often inspire it.
