One should really use the camera as though tomorrow you'd be stricken blind.
Dorothea LangeRead
The words that come direct from the people are the greatest.If you substitute one out of your own vocabulary, it disappears before your eyes.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Authentic words from individuals hold the most power, while imposed language detracts from true expression.
Dorothea Lange emphasizes the significance of genuine expressions from the people rather than manufactured words that lack authenticity. When individuals substitute their natural vocabulary with imposed or adopted language, the profound essence of their thoughts diminishes, losing its visual and emotional impact, highlighting the importance of staying true to one's own voice.
Themes
AuthenticityExpressionLanguageCommunicationVoice
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about the importance of cultural heritage, you might use this quote to emphasize the power of genuine voices.
More from Dorothea Lange
All quotes βBeing disabled gave me an immense advantage. People are kinder to you. It puts you on a different level than if you go into a situation whole and secure.
Dorothea LangeRead
Surefire things are deadening to the human spirit.
Dorothea LangeRead
Photographers stop photographing a subject too soon before they have exhausted the possibilities.
Dorothea LangeRead
You go into a room and you know where you're welcome; you know where you're unwelcome.Sometimes in a hostile situation you stick around because hostility itself is important.The people who are garrulous and wear their heart on their sleeve and tell you everything, that's one kind of person, but the fellow who's hiding behind a tree and hoping you don't see him is the fellow that you'd better find out why.
Dorothea LangeRead
I believe in living with the camera, and not using the camera.
Dorothea LangeRead
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