Nothing came easy. I was just born with a need to explore every part of my mind. And with long searching and hard work, I became devoted to my restlessness.
Gordon ParksRead
And I think that after nearly 85 years upon this planet that I have a right after working so hard at showing the desolation and the poverty, to show something beautiful for somebody as well.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Gordon Parks reflects on his lifelong work, emphasizing the importance of showcasing beauty alongside the harsh realities of life.
In this quote, Gordon Parks articulates his belief that after decades of documenting the struggles of poverty and desolation, it is equally important to depict beauty as a form of balance and hope. He suggests that art should not only reveal hardship but also celebrate joyous and beautiful moments, providing viewers with a fuller, more nuanced understanding of the human experience.
Themes
ArtBeautyPovertyPhotographyHuman Experience
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech on social justice, one could use this quote to highlight the significance of representing both struggle and beauty in the arts.
More from Gordon Parks
All quotes →I suffered evils, but without allowing them to rob me of the freedom to expand.
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You know, the camera is not meant just to show misery.
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If you don't have anything to say, your photographs aren't going to say much.
Gordon ParksRead
The camera could be a very powerful instrument against discrimination, against poverty, against racism.
Gordon ParksRead
I saw that the camera could be a weapon against poverty, against racism, against all sorts of social wrongs. I knew at that point I had to have a camera.
Gordon ParksRead
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