Van Hartmann "On Looking at Nhem En's Photographs"

The video explores a poem inspired by the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, and a New York Times article about a photographer documenting Camero Rouge prisoners. It delves into the emotional impact of the photographer's duty, the stark realities faced by the prisoners, and the haunting portraits that capture their stories. The poem reflects on the convergence of historical and contemporary political moments, highlighting the human cost of conflict and the struggle for identity and recognition.

What inspired the poem 'Rip Tide'?

• A historical novel about the Camero Rouge

• A fictional story about a photographer

• A personal experience of the poet

• The Iraq and Afghanistan wars and a New York Times article

What was the photographer's duty according to the poem?

• To simply take the pictures

• To document the prisoners' emotions

• To help the prisoners escape

• To write about the prisoners' stories

How does the poem describe the expressions of the prisoners?

• Angry and rebellious

• Indifferent and calm

• Fearful and perplexed

• Joyful and hopeful

What is notable about prisoner #6's appearance?

• He wears a bright red jacket

• He is smiling in the photograph

• His silver hair and ancient eyes

• He has a youthful appearance

What question does the poem raise about the young girl without a number?

• Where is her family?

• What is her favorite color?

• How will they know who she was?

• Why is she smiling?