Introduction
As a passionate reader and admirer of 20th-century photography, I have long been intrigued by the life and work of Arthur Fellig, better known by his pseudonym “Weegee.” When I came across the biography “Flash: The Making of Weegee the Famous” by Christopher Bonanos, I knew I had to read it. In this blog post, I’ll share my thoughts on this fascinating book and what readers can expect from this in-depth look at one of the most iconic photographers of the 20th century.
Book Details
- Title: Flash: The Making of Weegee the Famous
- Author: Christopher Bonanos
- Publisher: Henry Holt and Co.
- Publication Date: June 5, 2018
- Genre: Biography, Photography
- Target Audience: Photography enthusiasts, history buffs, and readers interested in 20th-century American culture
Synopsis
”Flash: The Making of Weegee the Famous” chronicles the life and career of Arthur Fellig, a photographer who captured the gritty underbelly of New York City in the 1930s and 1940s. Born in 1899 in what is now Ukraine, Fellig immigrated to the United States as a child and took up photography as a young man. He eventually gained fame under the pseudonym “Weegee,” a name derived from the Ouija board, due to his uncanny ability to arrive at crime scenes before the police.
The book traces Weegee’s rise to prominence, from his early days as a freelance photographer to his work for major newspapers and magazines. Along the way, Bonanos provides insights into Weegee’s unique style and approach to photography, as well as his complex personality and relationships with those around him.
Reading Experience
”Flash” is a compelling read from start to finish. Bonanos’ writing is engaging and well-researched, painting a vivid picture of Weegee’s life and the era in which he lived. The pacing is excellent, with each chapter providing new insights and anecdotes that keep the reader engaged.
One of the most striking aspects of the book is the way in which Bonanos brings Weegee’s photographs to life. By providing context and background information for many of Weegee’s most famous images, Bonanos helps the reader appreciate the artistry and impact of Weegee’s work on a deeper level.
Character Analysis
At the heart of “Flash” is the complex and often contradictory character of Weegee himself. Bonanos does an excellent job of exploring the many facets of Weegee’s personality, from his tough exterior and dark sense of humor to his hidden vulnerabilities and desire for recognition.
Through interviews with those who knew Weegee and careful analysis of his work, Bonanos creates a nuanced portrait of a man who was both a brilliant artist and a flawed human being. The result is a character study that is as compelling as it is illuminating.
Themes and Messages
One of the key themes of “Flash” is the power of photography to capture a moment in time and tell a story. Weegee’s photographs were not just aesthetically striking; they also served as a window into the social and economic realities of mid-20th-century New York City.
Bonanos explores how Weegee’s work shed light on issues of poverty, crime, and inequality, and how his photographs helped to shape public perceptions of these issues. At the same time, the book also grapples with the ethical questions raised by Weegee’s methods and the impact of his work on the lives of his subjects.
Comparison and Context
”Flash” is not just a biography of Weegee; it is also a fascinating look at the history of photography and journalism in the 20th century. Bonanos places Weegee’s work in the context of other notable photographers of the era, such as Diane Arbus and Robert Frank, and explores how Weegee’s style and approach influenced subsequent generations of photographers.
The book also provides insight into the changing landscape of media and journalism in the mid-20th century, as the rise of tabloid newspapers and magazines created new opportunities and challenges for photographers like Weegee.
Conclusion
”Flash: The Making of Weegee the Famous” is a must-read for anyone interested in photography, journalism, or 20th-century American history. Christopher Bonanos has created a compelling and insightful portrait of one of the most iconic photographers of the era, while also shedding light on the broader social and cultural context in which he worked.
Whether you are a longtime admirer of Weegee’s work or a newcomer to his photography, “Flash” is a book that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the art and craft of photojournalism. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a fascinating and thought-provoking read.
Rating: 5/5 stars