Picture Description
The image I chose is entitled as Hauling Freight captures the everyday life of people in Afghanistan. In particular, the picture depicts two Hazara men carrying a heavy load through a Kabul bazaar. The cart they are maneuvering is called Karachi, which is equipped with recycled tires and a trick axle. The men wear national clothes and headwear. Despite the incredible load they endure, their faces seem to be happy and calm as if they carry a cart regularly. The main idea of the photo is to demonstrate the image of peaceful life in the country and imprint the routine and culture of Afghan people during the 70s of the past century. In addition, the image illustrates the aspiration of Afghan people to reconstruct their country and contribute to its further successful development.
The photo is represented in sepia undertones to emphasize the spiritual and cultural background of the revival period. It seems that even if the colors were presented, no specific contrast would be highlighted. In addition, the picture is also full of their details, such as people standing in front of counters and salesmen serving behind it. Attention to detail, therefore, makes the entire picture quite strong and culturally important.
Overall, though the image detects one specific scene from everyday life, it still manages to capture the entire culture of Afghanistan. Therefore, I consider this picture to be my favorite one. While contemplating it, it is possible to understand what it means to live in a free and peaceful place for Afghan people. I can also feel that they are happy and optimistic despite the fact that they need to work hard to earn for living.
Background Information about Joseph Hoyt
Joseph Hoyt is an American photographer who traveled across Afghanistan in the 70s of the twentieth century. He was only 23 when he took photos of a peaceful country to capture their routine life (PARSA, 2012). Being a young traveler, Hoyt visited the country to make a valuable record of life in Afghanistan in a pre-war period. The photos, therefore, provide a contrasting view of the stereotypical interpretation of the spiritual environment in the country.
The photography was fresh out of college when he started his journey across various countries. As an amateur photographer, he still managed to discover the spirit of Afghanistan and render the most striking elements of this culture. Although he traveled to more than 20 countries, Hoyt was fascinated by Afghanistan as he had never been to any other countries he had visited (PARSA, 2012).
In particular, the photographer was captivated by the peacefulness and splendor of the country because it was also unusual to see Afghan people unarmed and happy. Spending five years in Afghanistan, Joseph Hoyt has reproduced and immortalized the genuine spirit and culture of the Eastern world. He recalled the beauty and power of the people and provided a new perspective on the social background of the country.
While using only white-and-black images, it is possible to conceive the main themes, concerns, and ideas of the peaceful era in Afghanistan. The photographer does not only provide a new image of the country but also introduces new prospects and possibilities of the development in the country. By depicting happy and carefree people, Hoyt proves that the pictures will help people realize the consequences that war can have for a peaceful existence.
Reference
PARSA. (2012). Afghanistan 1970-1975: Images from an Era of Peace. Photographs by Joseph Hoyt. Web.