The image I selected is one of the gruesome images that was captured on 9/11, a very tragic day in American history. I think looking beyond the obvious tragedy that was occuring, there are several elements of the image that speak to deeper themes.
I was able to find some of the backstory behind the image, such as who took the photo and who the individuals in the photo are. However, when I first saw the image I had little clues to what was actually going on, so I will be using my initial observations paired with the background knowledge that I now possess.
One of the first components I noticed when viewing the image, and the main reason why I chose it, was the different array of people photographed in the image.
In the forefront, there is a civilian pictured helping out. Also, there are firefighters and police officers working to bring the injured individual to safety. When taking a deeper look at the firefighter on the left side of the image, he is wearing jeans, unlike the firefighter pictured in the background, who is in full uniform.
This idea speaks to the fact that on this day, any firefighters and people who were able to lend a helping hand, did. The man was likely off duty, but started working again so that he could help out the city when it needed him most.
Images that came out of 9/11 are very powerful, but I think this one speaks to the sense of community that was built due to the catastrophe. Very few events can bring all walks of life together to unite and help those who are hurting.
After knowing the backstory of this image, it feels even more of a powerful capture. The injured fellow is a priest that was helping to give out final blessings, but unfortunately became one of the first recorded victims of the attacks. While he was helping out his community, his community also had his back and was able to honor him in the most powerful way there is.
A very interesting thought that was included in the description of the image is how the individuals are arranged in the photo, almost as if it were staged. Unfortunately, as we know, the image was not staged. Though, the heroes in the photo are arranged almost has angels in a way, though not planned, speaks to the message behind the image.
While this day was certainly one of the most brutal in American history, the community was united like never before as demonstrated by the very powerful image captured on that day.
*Image can be gruesome, viewer discretion advised*
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