Big Book

Big Book

by John Berger, Katharine Martinez, William S. Johnson, W. Eugene Smith

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About
This set presents an accurate reproduction of the unpublished magnum opus of W. Eugene Smith, an icon in the field of twentieth-century photography who is best known as the master of the humanistic photographic essay. In 1959, Smith created an extended photo-essay that he called "The Big Book," a complex retrospective of his work that would reflect his philosophy of art and critique of the world. Smith's layout grouped photographs out of context and chronological order to form a series of connected "visual chapters and subchapters" that were intended to have a Joycean or Faulknerian literary quality. After three years, Smith completed two handmade folio-sized maquettes to send to publishers. This reproduction of "The Big Book" is an essential primary source document for the study of both the history of photography and the history of the photobook.

Discussion questions for Big Book

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  1. 1

    Smith intentionally grouped photographs "out of context and chronological order" to create "visual chapters." How did this non-linear approach impact your experience of the book, and what new meanings or connections emerged for you by seeing images juxtaposed in unexpected ways?

  2. 2

    The description states The Big Book reflects Smith's "philosophy of art and critique of the world." What specific recurring visual motifs, themes, or emotional tones did you observe that you believe contribute to this overarching philosophy and critique?

  3. 3

    Smith aimed for a "Joycean or Faulknerian literary quality" in his visual narrative. Did you find yourself "reading" the photographs in a similar way to complex prose, or did you approach them differently? Describe how your viewing experience might differ from a traditional photo album or documentary collection.

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