The established division of roles between architect and critic demands that designers see the bottle half-full, and observers half-empty. But the current crisis offers an opportunity to reverse these roles that must not be missed. Architects, short of work, can be more reflective; critics, in a sea of skepticism, can be more inspirational. We may still have to face some inconvenient truths, but always bearing in mind that architecture can protect, perform and please. Against sprawl and spectacle, against spreading and shouting, let us come closer and speak softly.