Diomira Trevelogue and Product Designer Research

As a new part of the course, we are asked to write a travelogue about the city we have created from Calvino's descriptions. Having never written one before, its was quite a challenge. Writing is not my strongest point. So, I decided to base it like I was writing a letter (Like Calvino) or as a diary entry. Also, as we have taken on the role of Director in this project, it was wise to do some research.

What If Metropolis? Travelogue

Diomira

  Diomira is settled deep to the east, easily taking three days travel from my previous destination.  The best way to reach here is by car, it would be much too uncomfortable for a horse, and by foot would mean adding many more days to the travel timing. Surround by dense tropical flora, there are rainforests reach as far as the eye can see and the continuous chattering of continents wildlife. However, Diomira occupies one of the very rare clearances, with farmlands and swamps in its vicinity. There is plenty of rainfall here, and an abundance of rivulets cutting their way thought the forestry. The constant humidity leaves the soils surrounding the city rich, perfect for the growth of exotic herbs and produce. However, moving back more towards the woodlands, it much boggier. The streams and rain leave many sodden areas and small swamps, which are utilised as rice beds and fishing wells. It’s best not to be outside at mid-day, in the grips of summer the temperature reaches so high it can be considered dangerous. Only those who are climatized are seen to be working the fields and marshes during the day. Proceeding along the lead lined road towards the metropolis, the path had changed from cobbles some way back in the rainforest.

  Coming up to Diomira, there are no stone walls. Instead are the tall railings of silver and lead, detailed with the intricate motifs of the city’s emblem and monarchy. The top railings are spiked with oil, so to stop anyone climbing over. Although, these reach such heights, I doubt they could be so easily ascended.  The guards people inspect every traveller and vehicle when entering, standing tall in the silver and bronzes of the sentry attire. Adorned with hats decorated with city’s crest and lapels of the goddess’s colour, seeming proud in serving their home and sovereign. Upon the rolling gates of the city sits a great bronze Lion-dog, its eyes piercing and sharp. A messenger of safety from their Goddess, as violence here is strongly forbidden.

  Inside the walls, large silver domes line the streets of lead leading the stunning crystal theatre. You can hear the constant chatter of the brightly colour birds as they fly overhead, enjoying the reflective warmth. The streets move away from the theatre in long boulevards, each holding a market at the end. As for the Dome houses, they are all different in shapes and sizes, many consist of more than one rotunda. These, I can only assume are the homes of growing families. Some are even on platforms, with rickety ladders ascending to the grey pavements. The panels of the silver domes seem to not only reflect the light, but absorb the heat, this being used to power the city.  At closer inspective, fine intricate details are seen in the house’s doors and windows, these symbols seem represent the trade and family line of the people living here. Tall, black streetlights with cage like lanterns flow thought the avenues, leading the way to the markets. signposts along the pavements tell of what type of market is at the end of each street.

  It’s much too quiet in the city during the day, the only thing around is the numerous bronze statues of the worshiped deities. However, the markets are in full swing, but seemingly only for trade with outside merchants. Hundreds of stalls work in a spiral pattern, so no trader is overlooked when spectators peruse. Travellers far and wide have brought their wears, bartering and dealing for what the stall merchant has to offer. There are 6 markets here in total, this one is for materials and clothing. Others consist of medicine and apothecary, food/alcohol, books and miscellaneous, and finery specialities.

  A hill the east side of the city sits a glass tower, its twisted form reflecting many colours from the sun and reaching high into the sky. Seeming watching over Diomira is the mother of all, sculpted from bronze and gold. In one hand she holds a wreath of wheat to represent a bountiful harvest, the other a spear for protection. Sleeping at the top is the famous golden cockerel, resting on in it nest. somewhat difficult to gain a proper view of it and being much too early for it to crow.

  There are very few Domes here that act as hotels for travellers. The hotel of choice for me is “The Squawking Parrot”, this name is quite humorous considering the contest cawing of the local wildlife. Inside is decorated with rich red wood, the delicate detailing of gold/bronze are a contrast to the silver walls of the dome. The lobby to the left of the reception is full of plush cushions, some nearly large enough to sink completely. Towards the rear window is a low set alter with a small golden statue of the goddess, it seems all of Diomira’s resistant’s have these and surround them with coins as offerings. A friendly place with good hosting family, they are quite happy to help with anything.

Luckily, I had come a few days before the moon will reach its fullest, for it seems there will be a festival that night. Normally, outsiders would be removed from the city for these celebrations, only those invited by resident may join. My few days here meant I had gotten to know the host and his family well and had asked me to stay to see these celebrations for myself.  However, even though I had been invited, they warned that stay inside during the day. The bustle of the cities preparations and rituals are scarce. An outsider seen amongst them during this time would represent as a bad omen, bringing a decrease in yield and profits.

  At 2100, when all was complete, I could join my new friends in the celebrations. They had let me borrow one of their traditional grabs and footwear. Rich in the colour green and intricately embossed, this was for representing Kual, the god of prosperity. It seems tonight is a celebration in his name, my new friends telling me that it changes each full moon. Outside, the streets were buzzing with life, many of Diomira’s residents are nocturnal. The streetlights are glow with many colours, people greeting each other with kindly, including myself even though I’m an outsider. Heading to the city centre, the theatre is radiant with music, could and light. The melody is upbeat and easy to dance to, the words being sung in the native language, which I do not speak. Surrounding the theatre are long red oak wooden tables, laden with food and drink, the air rich with aromatic scents. Soon enough the golden cockerel crows at 2200, everyone taking their seat and listening to the prays given by the great Apostle though the crystal tunnels of the theatre. In the distance, the glass tower light up to illuminate the mother goddess throughout the prays. With thanks given, everyone dines among the light of coloured candle lamps, telling stories and jokes, discussing their latest deals happily. As the night goes on, the tables disappear and the music continuous, the drinks flow freely and Diomira’s citizens dance together as one family.

  The next day, Diomira is so still. The markets are not open, the gates are closed, and you can only here the chatter of the many bird residing on the dome’s roofs. However, the streets are clean, you wouldn’t even know there had even been a celebration the night before. The day after is a day of rest, no business is allowed in this holy time. I have chosen to leave now, as my next destination is very far. but for all that have not been here, I would recommend seeing Diomira to truly grasp its utopian elegance.

Product Designer Research

Kathy Altieri - Product Des... by Kimberley Davis on Scribd