Mixed Emotions at 9/11 Memorial

Russell says that the "rush to commemorate resulted in a compromised, but elegant muddle."

Russell praises a water feature that commemorates the victims of the disaster and a row of white oaks that are part of the landscaping:

"Though [landscape architect Peter] Walker has created a place of quiet dignity with the ranks of trees and the plane of granite, pleasant ambivalence trumps the expression of tragedy. Once the site can be opened to surrounding streets, local Wall Street workers will gather at lunch."

Russell says the forthcoming museum and visitors are more than the memorial needs.