Entry #9: Jacob Lawrence and David Brower

The two passages that I chose from these sections of the Studs Terkel Reader were the stories of Jacob Lawrence (the artist) and of David Brower (the environmentalist). I chose these two stories because they seemed like two people that I would more reasonably be able to relate to for different reasons. As an actress, I think in some of the same ways as an artist like Lawrence does. Similarly, because I am a vegan and an environmentalist myself, I figured that I would be able to connect with Brower's point of view. I was right on both stories. Lawrence talked about his experience during the great depression and how he and his generation actually benefited from it. The government created programs to improve life for average American citizens and this included the youth of their society. Many art programs were funded by the United States government and this helped create some of the best artists and performers of their generation. Lawrence talked about what a shame it is that America does not fund the arts in the same ways in modern society. In schools now days, the first programs to be cut for budget expenses are classes in dance, theatre, music, and art. People have lost so much of the appreciation for art in today's society and young boys and girls are embarrassed to show their passion for it. Society has lost some of the great appreciation for art that existed during the great depression. The question is, why? How did we let this happen? Why is nothing being done about it? It is up to the leaders of today's society to create the same programs that existed during the Great Depression. If we lose art in our communities, we lose the spirit in our souls. That might sound incredibly cheesy, but it is true. If people give up on their artistic and expressive sides, then they have given up on true happiness and personal freedom. Lawrence would strongly agree with this belief. I was also able to understand where David Brower was coming from. He brought up the importance of people speaking out for what they believe in and not holding back due to fear of the repercussions they may suffer as a result of self expression. He said that the older generation is obligated to stand up and defend their beliefs on what is right and what is wrong because they have less to lose than the younger generations. He felt that they had less to risk in terms of job security or children's college tuitions. He was right, but I still feel that it is every man and woman and child's duty to speak up against injustices and wrongdoings and demand change. I think that he had the right idea in every person being obligated to risk their security and reputation for the betterment of society, but I strongly believe that it is in fact every single person in society who is obligated to do this, not just those of the older generation. Both men had very interesting perspectives on life because of the rough times they endured through their years. I found both stories exciting and relatable because I could understood what caused the fire each of these men's bellies. I understood their passion and their intent and I love hearing these inspirational stories and encouragement from men like them.