Some might question why I took this image. I don't mean to exploit him. The trip to Thailand was very much a soul searching mission for me. I'm not sure what I expected to find there, but I did resolve to try to present it in an honest light with my camera. Bangkok in particular has its share of tragedy. This poor soul happened to be one of the more visually tragic, but i'm sure as many share the burden of his suffering.
So far I haven't been able to put into words what this trip did for me. I could write volumes or nothing and it might carry the same message. Time will tell I suppose.
Interesting that fate brought me to write this comment on this image. It probably means that most won't ever read it, because many prefer to pretend human beings like this don't exist; they're just part of the landscape.
Anyway.
I gave this guy as much money as i could afford at the time and left all the good energy I had in me with him as i walked away.
I might have learned more in that 5 minutes than i have in the past 20 years.
I think this is part of the photographers, and artists, responsbilty to give sight to the invisible and voice to the silent. This is a strong example. I wish only, that we knew his story, his voice.
yanno ~P~ I've looked at this image more than a few times trying to decide what the response was that I have when I see it. Overwhelmingly its beauty. I would love to know this persons story to sit down with him and learn. The courage and strength I see in those eyes is humbling. Perhaps i'm projecting what I want to see but somehow I dont think so.
So yes..I'm going to go with Beauty.. beauty of the man in the man in the photograph and beauty in the soul of the photographer for taking the time to see what so many of us would have looked away from.
~R~
I have made comments before about disturbing images for the sake of disturbing images and how this motive...to push the boundaries let's say...are ultimately self-centered actions for being progressive and unique. You however (and maybe it is because through your photography and comments) aren't this sort of man. This is one of those rare images that although blatantly disturbing, carries with it a heavy, important message. As you said many probably suffer more than this man, perhaps in the soul, but that doesn't take away from the fact that for an instant or forever, someone like this can change the way we look at the world. bobdeveant said, "I try to believe that God has a reason for everything that happens to us, I dont know the reason for this terrible tragedy." Well, I agree with the first part, but believe the answer is clear for the second. When we look at absolute beauty or unbelievable horror, more times than not we turn to God with questions, with thankfulness or for answers. And that is the purpose: for us to turn to God regardless. Through your image, you may help someone think deeper about life and God.
The tragedy of this image is no more telling than the explanation of how it affected you. If nothing else, I'm sure your kindness and kharma gave that man a moment he probably hasn't experienced in a long time.
Bless him and you for validating his existence, if only to show his plight in the world.
This photo is so painful too look at, not in the sense that I am mad at you for taking it, I am not. The pain comes from even dreaming about what this man has endured in his life. I try to believe that God has a reason for everything that happens to us, I dont know the reason for this terrible tragedy. But I do reazlize every time I see someone less fortunate I thank God for making me appreciate what my life is like and not take for granite what I have good in front of me. I'll get off my soap box and thank you for taking this picture, and hope that others appreciate what you have done by sharing this as I did. Thank you.
i just want to say congratulation for having the guts to show us this photo. Many people would not of given this poor man a second thought, i am sure that you left an impression with him too. This is a very moving photo, and i am glad to of seen it
Most of us wouldn't have the guts to photograph someone this unfortunate in life, especially knowing they were being potentially exploited.
I admire your verve and thanks for sharing a compelling story behind this.
You never know how God can move unless you risk moving yourself first. Thank you for taking the photo. What a precious soul! He will be in my prayers as much as God reminds me of him. Life can be tragic but we don't have to make it a tragedy. Your trip sounds like a gentle 2 x 4 hit the soul! Enjoy the transformation as life takes on new meanings for you. I enjoyed your work, great job! Thanks for sharing.
love,
Poe Egan
Add photograph to your favorites
Add photographer to your favorites
Photographer found comment helpful.
