SUMMARY- Greta Friedman, the women being kissed by a sailor in the iconic picture taken in Times Square has passed away. The black-and-white photograph of Friedman, dressed in a white uniform, being hugged and kissed by a returned sailor to celebrate the end of World War II has become an enduring and iconic image. Friedman has said that "Suddenly, I was grabbed by a sailor, it wasn't much of a kiss. It was more of a jubilant act that he didn't have to go back." This is one of the most famous images taken celebrating the return of those who served in World War II. This legendary photograph was taken by Alfred Eisenstaedt, which was circulated in Life magazine a few weeks later. The couple's identity remained a mystery until 1980, 35 years after it was taken. The photograph has been so widely enjoyed because it celebrates a momentous occasion of true bliss after returning home from war. Greta Friedman was surprisingly kissed after the news of Japan's surrender to the United States was announced on a billboard, marking the end of the war. The kiss was an unplanned victory, and the famously captured picture still remains a constant image in popular culture marking the end of war.
ANALYSIS/SYNTHESIS- This story was published by CNN News a well trusted and reliable source on September 11th, at 8:56 AM ET. This story is relevant to today because it shows how excited society was when the end of war came. This surprising picture taken in 1945 shows how devastating war was, and how excited sailors were not to return. Before reading this article I have seen the picture and thought of it as a romantic gesture. This article was written to inform readers of a meaningful loss, and to remind people of how Greta Friedman shaped history. I believe her life has had a positive effect on our understanding of emotions felt at that time. This article is important because it shows her legacy and how an accidental photograph could show so many emotions. This story reminds me of the celebrations after World War II and how excitement filled crowds throughout the nation.
http://www.cnn.com/2016/09/10/us/greta-friedman-iconic-kissing-vj-day-photo-obit-irpt/index.html
I find it so sad that Friedman passed away, but I believe that her legacy and that memorable picture will live on! Seeing that picture when the world war was over was probably such a relief to the citizens affected at the time and most likely symbolized a time of happiness and joy for the nation! It's really interesting to see how a single picture can have such a huge effect on our country, and Greta Friedman will forever be remembered. It also shows how as artists the products we create can be very powerful and have lasting effects long after we are gone.
ReplyDeleteHey Abbey, I really love this picture, as well as the message it sends. I enjoy that it was more of a symbol of the excitement of the soldiers and citizens than it was a display of affection. Greta Friedman's legacy will live on centuries after her death.
ReplyDelete