The inspiration for and centerpiece of Richard Powers’ 1985 novel Three Farmers on Their Way to a Dance is a 1914 photograph by August Sander. Powers conjures that one of these young European farmers, who were dressed in their finest suits, was organizing a pose with swagger, with youthful optimism, bordering on arrogance, undiminished by the worries of the world, including the prelude to World War I.
He was looking for a pose that would reflect “the sheer heroism of being young,” writes Powers. That’s a heroism without history. Without an understanding of consequences for foolishness.
The scene smacks of today’s social media pose: “Look at me”……..See where I’m going……’Like’ what I’m doing.” This would be tolerable, I suppose, if this attitude didn’t reflect excessive self-absorption which, in these times, endangers lives and livelihood.
Concerned for real and severe but short-term suffering during declining economies, state leaders all across America relaxed commercial and social restrictions before Covid-19 cases had subsided sufficiently and stabilized at levels low-enough to assure long-term success against this vicious virus that has demonstrated it cannot easily be vanquished.
Bars and beaches filled; and careless patrons posed cheek-to-cheek for selfies. Stores became crowded with unmasked customers who were violating the law but nevertheless scowled at those of us who persisted with face coverings and continued to give wide berth to those who would not do so.
Record-setting new Covid cases followed, assuring that stricter social, school and commercial limitations would return and economic recovery long delayed.
JER
ALL OVER THE MAP 