Aesthetics and beauty are critically examined and elucidated, using a surprisingly wide range of specific examples, from interior design and architecture, to textiles and clothing. Heaton, a successful designer himself, offers his entertaining and uncompromising views, exploding the myth that no one can clearly answer the question RWhat is Art?

There is only one place in a civilized society where men and women can see the various ideals about life effectively balanced, and that is in the intimate relationship of marriage. The path to matrimony starts with friendship, but an essential mutual commitment must then occur that deepens the relationship, and takes it from the merely mundane into the transcendent. The love that begins in courtship will find completeness in a partnership that is characterized by devotion, truthfulness, and empathy. Therefore, by marrying, men and women make the deliberate choice to forego some aspects of...

"This book examines how family relations, privacy, upbringing, ambition, personal freedom, and the desire for intimacy are integrated in the development of individuality and in the forming of major life choices, within the context of a society that is experiencing a loss of traditional values"--Provided by publisher.

Throughout history, men and women during courtship have paid close attention to each other's beliefs and opinions. The reason for this is clear: the relationship could not possibly endure if there were serious disagreements about the "right" or "wrong" way to do things. Reaching the ideal form of companionship necessitates establishing a foundation of interlocking attributes upon which to build a marriage. Yet certain issues remain, such as how much should one press for similarity in viewpoint, how differences in outlook should be handled, and what level of difference should be considered too...