Wednesday, January 25, 2012

Many Are Called

I just finished reading Rules of Civility by Amor Towles, which I'll say more about another day. For now I want to talk about how reading it led me to discover some interesting photos by Walker Evans. The Prologue of the book opens in the 1950's, years after the main story takes place, with the protagonist at a museum opening for Many Are Called, an exhibit of candid photos from the late 1930's (right around the same time as these pictures). Taken with a hidden camera (!) they depict unsuspecting New York City subway riders.






(Images from here, here, here, here, and here)

I'm not sure which is the most intriguing: the vintage clothing and newspaper, the blank stares and world weary attitudes....or those two chatty ladies!

4 comments:

  1. Oh my gosh, those are amazing! I definitely need to read that book.

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  2. What a coincidence to go on your blog and see that you were mentioning "Rules of Civility" and showing those great photos by Walker Evans. I am rereading it because my book group will be discussing it today. I loved the book! It's great to see the images you included. I hope you enjoyed the book!

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  3. A secret subway camera! That is so awesome! Now I need to read the book ;)

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  4. Love the old lady in the second picture. Her expression is awesome! I'm eager to hear what you thought about the book.

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