Battered
I saw this scene a few weeks ago, I'm not even sure where this is. Somewhere along the bay between Atlantic Highlands and Keansburg I think. I really should keep better track of my explorations, but sometimes I just drive aimlessly around looking for interesting things to shoot.
One of the things that I took note of in this photo was the tattered flag flown by the fishing vessel. I know that many will say that a tattered American flag is a disgrace and it should never be allowed to be flown in such condition. Maybe that is so.
Russell was working next to me when he saw this photo as I was working on it for posting and he said to me that he actually has a soft spot in his heart and a deeper respect for a tattered American flag than a brand new pristine one. I asked him why and he said he couldn't really explain it in words but it just seems to have earned the respect. It's been battered and yet it still flies proudly.
I thought about this for a few moments and I actually knew exactly what he meant and had the same emotional response when I saw this tattered flag myself. It's as if it's earned respect simply by flying proudly despite the tough times it's been through, it's somehow more real to me. A survivor of many storms, still beautiful and worth fighting for.
One of the things that I took note of in this photo was the tattered flag flown by the fishing vessel. I know that many will say that a tattered American flag is a disgrace and it should never be allowed to be flown in such condition. Maybe that is so.
Russell was working next to me when he saw this photo as I was working on it for posting and he said to me that he actually has a soft spot in his heart and a deeper respect for a tattered American flag than a brand new pristine one. I asked him why and he said he couldn't really explain it in words but it just seems to have earned the respect. It's been battered and yet it still flies proudly.
I thought about this for a few moments and I actually knew exactly what he meant and had the same emotional response when I saw this tattered flag myself. It's as if it's earned respect simply by flying proudly despite the tough times it's been through, it's somehow more real to me. A survivor of many storms, still beautiful and worth fighting for.
I've been down and battered, tired and worn.
But despite the turmoils of many a vicious storm.
I will get up in the morning to face yet another day.
I will strive to do my very best or at least a little better than yesterday.
But despite the turmoils of many a vicious storm.
I will get up in the morning to face yet another day.
I will strive to do my very best or at least a little better than yesterday.
The above verse is a little something I was inspired to write by this particular photo as well as by some recent disappointments I've experienced. Thanks for asking Leigh-Anne.
Labels: Jersey Shore, New Jersey
posted by Laurie at 12:00 AM
20 Comments:
Excellent, Laurie. That tattered flag just makes the picture. Very astute young man you have there in Russell.
this is great the b/w really adds to the mood of the place
:o)
T
I agree completely, theres something quite endearing about a tattered flag. I like contrast in your B&W conversion.
That's an amazing image you've captured. Quiet and respectful; it says to me battered but not abandoned. It reminds me of the Velveteen Rabbit.
The closing version is nice too. Is that your own?
Bonjour,
Well done contrast and composition..bravo!
Thanks for asking Leigh-Anne.
Yes, I wrote this little verse. I was inspired by this particular photo as well as some recent disappointments I've experienced.
Great photo, Laurie. And your verse is nice too. I hope you're doing okay. Take care.
interesting composition, nice writing as well. hope all is well...
:)
This is so touching laurie. I like the stories of survivors and it sounds like you are one of them. The tattered flog is a perfect message too.
Photographer extrodenaire, Super Mom and now poet too. Fantastic.
Beautiful strong b&w! Nice scenery!
Beautiful contrasts and tones. The title is apropos. A tattered American flag is never a disgrace. I think what your son was perhaps feeling is that the tattered flag has earned a certain respect because it's owner saw fit to proudly display it for so long a time regardless of the conditions and the politics of the times. The Marine motto reflects this: Semper Fidelis (always faithful). Beautiful image and beautiful words, Laurie.
interesting place - and a great photo.
Great find Laurie. This is my kinda spot
Laurie, sometimes I love your stuff, and this is one of those times. Wonderful image, wonderful prose.
What an excellent work! Your B&w is perfect and the scene splendid! Gret one!
Wonderful B&W! The stark contrast is a real attention grabber! I too like the tattered flag, old is so much more interesting than new.
Photowannabe's new links led me here and I'm glad it did. Great work!
Interesting combination of subjects here. Cool find.
How Francis Scott Key of you. Great photo!
nice composition laurie
Very nice atmosphere for such a dilapidated place. Nice catch !
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