Photographs and family

Photographs have some effect on “family,” but I seriously doubt whether they actually consolidate or construct it.  The idea comes first, I think, and the photographs shore it up. Whatever elusive idea actually ties any one of us to a family is more likely to be built and sustained in words and phrases.  At least I think that’s the case for us.  That means that the photographs will invariably confirm the words–and the silences–that gave the whole thing a certain shape and flavour.

This image is rare, possibly unique.  My mother took some care not to expose the eccentric determination behind quite a few of her decisions.  She was determined, among other things, to appear easy, casual.  She’s a bit exposed here.