The Importance of "Taste" in Work

This article explores the concept of "taste" in the context of making good work. It argues that taste is not merely subjective but a critical element in producing great design, whether it be in mathematics, engineering, art, or any other field.

• The author argues that taste is essential for recognizing and creating beautiful and effective work.
• It's not about personal preference, but about understanding and applying principles of good design.

Understanding the Principles of Good Design

The article presents a set of principles that contribute to great work across different fields. These principles serve as guidelines for designers, artists, and creators to strive for excellence.

• Simplicity: Less is more. Good work prioritizes clarity and focus, avoiding unnecessary complexity.
• Timelessness: Great work transcends trends and stands the test of time. Aiming for timelessness helps achieve the best possible solution.
• Solving the Right Problem: Good work focuses on addressing the core issue effectively, rather than merely providing a simple solution to a trivial problem.
• Suggestiveness: Effective work allows for interpretation and invites engagement, rather than simply stating everything explicitly.
• Humor: A touch of humor can add strength and depth to work, indicating confidence and a lack of self-seriousness.
• Effort: Great work requires dedicated effort, as hard problems demand ingenious solutions.
• Ease: Good work should appear effortless and intuitive, reflecting the mastery of the craft.
• Symmetry: Symmetry, both repetition and recursion, can enhance simplicity and elegance in work.
• Resemblance to Nature: Borrowing from nature's long-refined designs can lead to effective solutions.
• Redesign: Great work is rarely achieved in the first attempt. Expecting and embracing redesign is key to improvement.
• Copying: Imitation can be a starting point, but ultimately it's about seeking truth and excellence, even if it means drawing from existing work.
• Strangeness: The most remarkable work often possesses an uncanny quality that's hard to replicate intentionally, but should be embraced when it emerges.
• Chunks: Good work often arises from communities of talented individuals working on related problems. This underscores the importance of collaboration and a shared creative environment.
• Daring: Great work often challenges conventions and risks being considered strange or controversial.

Cultivating Good Taste

The author emphasizes that developing good taste requires a combination of understanding, observation, and a willingness to challenge conventions. It's about seeking excellence and being intolerant of ugliness.

• Become an expert in your field to develop a keen eye for what needs improvement.
• Don't ignore the "little voices" that point out flaws or suggest better approaches.
• The recipe for great work is: very exacting taste, plus the ability to gratify it.

Beyond Personal Style

The article encourages readers to focus on creating good work rather than pursuing a personal style. When you strive for excellence, your personal style emerges naturally.

• Focus on making good things, and your style will become distinctive.
• Strangeness can't be forced, but it may emerge as you strive for excellence.

The Importance of Community

Great work often emerges from creative communities. This underscores the power of collaboration and the inspiration that comes from working alongside talented peers.

• Communities like the Bauhaus, the Manhattan Project, and the New Yorker have fostered groundbreaking work.
• Being part of a community of talented individuals working on related problems is crucial for achieving great work.