The Heroic Architect

The Fountain Head demonstrates many aspects of the profession. It is one of constant set backs and frustration before eventually succeeding. It is one of heroism and sacrifice.

The image of the architect portrayed in the film is one where the profession plays an important role in politics of the city. He is involved with key people. He is also constantly in the papers and people have an increased architectural awareness. Architecture were a glamorous field in these times. However, just like Howard Roark found out, it is easy to go from genius to the most hated person. Public opinion changes quickly.

In the film, the main character Howard Roark, has very strong ideas about what modern architecture should be. But unfortunately it is not one shared by the majority . He is unable to express his genius ideas. Most people don't get him. He is a person who will not compromise his design for money or fame. He is stubborn and determined. It is a life of sacrifice where he would rather not build anything than build something that did not belong to his ideals. It is an ongoing fight from beginning to end to actually convince people that architecture is about the truth.

On the other hand, there is also the sacrifice which an architect has to make in his personal life. The architect has to accept that love will have to wait and thus needs to fulfil his purpose. Domique Francon, Howard Roark's love interest is one of the few that understands his genius.

The contract which Howard gets into with Gail Wynand, the man who hated his building, is quite similar to making a pact with devil in order for him to succeed.

Close to the end, the court room shot, is reminiscent of the idea of individualism against collectivism. He stands alone arguing and defending his beliefs. It is quite the reflection of the architectural profession in one scene. We are condemned to suffer on our own. We can only hope there is light at the end of the tunnel. Architecture is not for the faint hearted. It is rather made for heroes. People who will not give up... who will not settle for any thing less.