In Chapter 2, Paul Goldberger expresses the architecture of the Chartres Cathedral, the University of Virginia, and the Unitarian Church in Rochester, New York. He re-introduces the character of Karsten Harries, and explains the "ethical function of architecture". Goldberger expresses the gap between aesthetics and practical function. He believes that we can just look at buildings the way they are- or we can understand their principle and admire their beauty using aesthetics. Chartres and University of Virginia are both buildings where aesthetic ideas are shared with a larger social idea. Goldberger emphasizes falling water- that it should be observed as a social idea- he believes that it symbolizes the relationship of family and nature...or the relationship of home and hearth.
Goldberger describes the architecture of the Unitarian church in great detail. We can visualize the square shaped room, the concrete ceiling, and the corners open to the light towers. He compares this building to the Yale Art Gallery-because it also has a brick building, with a concrete interior, a similar roughness. He also describes how the beauty can't be seen at first glance- but it can be seen when observed in great detail and multiple times. Paul Goldberger takes a stab on the idea that many works of architecture that we love and care for the most- are not real works of art at all. By saying this, Goldberger does not mean to say that our taste in architecture is bitter. Instead, he expresses that it is difficult to not adore the classic forms of architecture (quote)" It is difficult not to cherish the tile-roofed, white houses of the Mediterranean, the shingled cottages of New England, the brick commercial buildings of the main streets of Midwestern American cities". He emphasizes that humans have a mentality of reacting well to some forms and shapes, and not well to others. He believes that we create a foundation of appreciation based on the ordinary. Goldberger wants us to observe in great detail- when we say that we want to differentiate buildings and their beauty. Conclusively, Goldberger says that it is not any easier to say that architecture is a form of great art, than it is to say for music or a painting.