Reddit mentions of Atlas of Novel Tectonics

Then my next piece of advice is to learn Rhino. Don't mess with Sketchup or Autocad unless they're stepping stones. Go from Rhino to Revit. It'll be an awkward way of thinking, but you're just preparing yourself for how the industry will change.

Otherwise, I'd highly recommend this book:

http://www.amazon.com/Atlas-Novel-Tectonics-Jesse-Reiser/dp/1568985541/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1398504475&sr=8-1&keywords=atlas+of+novel+tectonics

It might be a little outdated (also pardon the US version of the link), but if you can grasp some of the material in the book, you'll benefit. If you can't, just keep at it. Be observant, be curious, be adventurous, and be original.

I am an architect. I gained my Bachelors from UNM and masters from Rice. I largely focus on theoretical works that incorporate computation and digital fabrication.

I personally think The Fountainhead is a joke. There is nothing in that book that relates to anything truly in Architecture other than using the profession as a tool for her to present her personally skewed views on things. Could have been about a plumber.

If there is a "religious experience" it is in throwing yourself into what you love. But I can't imagine someone stuck detailing windows on four story double loaded corridor apartment buildings having a religious experience...unless it is some sort of pittance.

I would do a lot more investigating into the field. There are many corners of the profession that are all interesting and unique. I would start by visiting some local schools if you happen to be near any. You may be able to have a visit and get a sense of the student commitment and time consumption. Post charette can be a good time to visit and see the chaos in its resultant form and watching students present on little to no sleep.

If Ayn Rand is what is motivating you to get into architecture I would recommend you instead turn to something like, The Atlas of Novel Tectonics and Italo Calvino's Invisible Cities as more appropriate places to begin to understand Architecture from within...at least in its generalized contemporary form.

Atlas of Novel Tectonics
http://www.amazon.com/Atlas-Novel-Tectonics-Jesse-Reiser/dp/1568985541

Invisible Cities
http://www.amazon.com/Invisible-Cities-Italo-Calvino/dp/0156453800


If these things make you hungrier...keep feeding the investigation.