Friday, June 10, 2011

Here Is What Brooklyn Was Like in the Summer of 1974

pictures here

something about these just really struck me. in the midst of what seems like some pretty stark surroundings, the people depicted just seem to be going about their ordinary lives, and in some cases having a hell of a time. many of the images portray a scene tagged with graffiti or covered with litter, many of the children are clearly malnourished. go outside now and try to find this many kids out and about, playing sports or swimming or whatever. try to find as many people gathered together at a neighborhood spot, in fact you may be lucky if you know your neighbors' names. sure now the standard of living in this area, and in most areas, is ostensibly higher - NYC underwent a grand cleanup project not long after these shots were taken - but when i ask myself if it was worth the jump, i really can't say yes.