The Rise of the Creative Class Revisited by Richard Florida is an update of his seminal 2003 book positing that the American society of the corporate/organization man has imploded and a new society is on the rise. That society values creativity. Florida’s definition of creativity is so broad that almost everyone and every geographical area exhibit at least some characteristics of creativity. He posits that people are choosing areas to live and then looking for employment. Therefore, areas must make themselves inviting. Hence urban and governmental planners have been building on Florida’s suggestions over the past decade by building trails, promoting the arts and developing local festivals. Irvington and Fountain Square are definitely seeing some success by following these suggestions.
Florida’s book includes extensive revisions and several new chapters. As in his previous books, Florida cites exhaustive research and includes charts and maps on almost every imaginable topic. Indiana is even mentioned in a few of the charts. Interestingly, although Florida’s book could be read as pro urban and anti suburban, even Florida states that he isn’t trying to start a war between suburban and urban areas.
Whether or not a person likes the book, it certainly will be a great springboard for discussion. The Irvington Branch Library is sponsoring a discussion of the book in conjunction with the FLOW festival centered on Pleasant Run. Come join the fun on Monday, August 3 at 6:30 at the Irvington Branch Library at 5525 East Washington with parking off Audubon. Oh, and by the way, there is a bicycle rack at the library.
