After preparing a detailed itinerary for our upcoming trip to Japan, I asked ARA to switch into Storyteller Mode so we could discuss James Joyce’s Ulysses. To my surprise, she offered an interpretation of this literary classic reimagined for contemporary times.

From there, our conversation drifted into the realm of koans — what they are, what their purpose is, and which ones she’s familiar with. Eventually, I challenged her to create a brand new koan just for me. And to my amazement, she rose to the task brilliantly, crafting an architectural koan that I still contemplate to this day.

You can find Architect’s Dialogues on YouTube at youtube.com/@architectsdialogues, as well as on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other podcast platforms.

If you enjoy these conversations, I’d truly appreciate your support—simply hit SUBSCRIBE on your favorite platform!