TOW #22- Visual- V-J Day Kiss

This week I decided to analyze a picture taken on V-J Day in 1945. The picture depicts a couple during a strong embrace in the middle of time square. The man, dressed as a sailor, is embracing a woman, dressed as a nurse, and kissing her in the street. This image is one of the most infamous in history as it shows the celebration of many following President Truman's announcement of the end of the war with Japan. The use of positive facial expressions, representation of a passionate kiss, and the contrast between black and white all formulate a good feeling for the viewer who can tell that this was a wonderful time for our nation. The man dressed as a sailor in the image is also wearing black almost completely. By showing this, the image shows the evidence of a dark time, the terrible war with Japan, however, when met by the woman, dressed totally in white, the view sees that

is a positive environment in which the war has ended and better things can now be embraced. The image also centers around a focused emotional kiss between the man in the woman who have probably been apart for very long due to the war. The image makes these two seem familiar, and the passion of the kiss appeals to the viewers pathos, making this a heartwarming moment. Despite the fact that a war had occurred, this pivitol kiss shows the possibility for pomposity once again in a scattered nation. Finally, the images representation of other civilians makes the viewer even happier and proves this was a great time for our country. Each person in the back is shown smiling approvingly and clapping as they watch the couple kiss. However, the image is clearing showing the approval of more than just a kiss, it represents the approval of an end to harsh times and war. Everyone is excited to see that the good moments in America and starting to return.