>     Now is an inappropriate time to debate the 'subjectivity
> of truth' as, in this case, everyone knows who raised that
> flag.  Let the monument be truthful in representing the
> three who performed this act.

I think the question is whether a monument should be a literal expression of
a particular truth - a 3-D reproduction of that particular photo (chosen
from among thousands of photos at Ground Zero because it seemed to express
an idea of patriotism and American strength rising from the ruins) - or a
more generalized, symbolic, abstracted version of all the truths of that
day - that many people, everywhere, expressed their grief, support, and
patriotism. The designers of the statue in question chose the second way -
to include the concept that people of all races, colors, creeds, backgrounds
were all one that day, all Americans, all expressing their will to overcome
and rise from the ruins.

I don't see anything wrong with going for the symbolism. It's not necessary
"PC" in a way that distorts the truth - it presents in abstract form a
deeper truth. That's what memorials do. We have the photo - we've all seen
it - it will live on - why simply reproduce it in bronze? And it's not the
only memorial there is or is going to be - different artists and different
groups will obviously all seek their own truths. The point of the statue is
not just to honor those 3 particular men, only, is it? Will there be
individual recognizable statues of every rescuer that day?

And, in this of all times, I don't choose to forget that truth is
subjective. Aren't we all in the business of understanding multiple meanings
in objects in their time and place and other times and places? That shows no
lack of respect for the dead, the brave, or the living. We can accept that
others see the world differently, without ceasing to support and argue for
our own ideas of truth, value, and meaning. I believe. Anyway. Still do.
Even now.

Carol Ely
Museum consultant
Louisville

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