Frank Lloyd Wright designed Fallingwater in 1935, building the house directly over a waterfall in rural Pennsylvania. When engineers expressed concern about the structural safety of his cantilevered design, Wright reportedly replied, 'I have designed it to stand, and it will stand.' Eighty years later, after some reinforcement, the house remains one of the most visited architectural landmarks in America.

4
reading

It can be inferred from the text that

A

all architects oppose engineering advice

B

Fallingwater collapsed shortly after construction

C

cantilevered designs are never structurally sound

D

Wright had strong confidence in his architectural vision

Correct Answer: D

Choice D is the best answer. Wright's response shows conviction despite expert concerns.

  1. Context clues: Engineers expressed concern; Wright replied it "will stand."
  2. Meaning: Asserting certainty against expert skepticism demonstrates strong confidence.
  3. Verify: The house still stands, showing his confidence was justified.

💡 Strategy: Direct quotes often reveal character traits like confidence or determination.

Choice A is incorrect because the passage describes one architect, not all. Choice B is incorrect because the house "remains" after eighty years. Choice C is incorrect because the house stands, proving the design was sound (with reinforcement).