I had the privilege of celebrating the Forth of July Independence Day with two different generations. Being an observer and one who ponders, listens to what is said between the lines I found myself in my element at both gatherings. Image above is of a graphic designer pre-software where you had to create with a pen. She worked at design firms in NYC once with the man who hand lettered “Cadillac” his calligraphy stood the test of time. She marveled at what could be done on the computer now and I thought of how much more involved the artist was with a pen.
On the Forth I spent a beautiful afternoon with a group of friends who for the most part are younger than me. I felt right at home in both places and enjoyed the similarities of celebrations.
Back on the fifth this man posed for the photo something very common from that period. I remember looking looking at family photos from the fifties and seeing the same expression on aunts and uncles in every image.
The weather was splendid both days and both groups sought out shade. One of the similarities, also similar were chips, dips, hot dogs [or bratwurst] and a sharing of independence, America and its freedom. There were many different views of where we are as a nation I am sure but all were put aside for the sharing of commonality. There was talk from the older folks on the fifth of the war [WW2] and branches of service but the dominant theme was laughter and diet cheating. The main difference was music. There was music on the fifth and folks sang along to the hits of the forties shared voices and memories. On the forth we shared stories of concerts. Outrageous events from our youth and last week. Thanks to all for letting me into your stories. enjoy pjc
Last Days of prints for the people, change is coming.
