At a Glance

Dated observed: 8/28/08

Date entered: 8/28/08

Context: Individual

Activity: At a Glance, page 21

Observation:

Picture courtesy New York Times Political Section. Art by Ronald J. Calla II

I think that this is a photo that is meant to persuade readers. By transforming the Obama insignia with the initials of LBJ  (for former president Lydon B. Johnson), it associates Obama's presidency with the progressive presidency of Johnson. Johnson not only brought great social change to America, he lessened American involvement in Vietnam and regrouped a country suffering from the assassination of its leader. This visual persuades its viewer that Obama can bring similar changes to America.

I think that the visual is very simplistic in form, but it can be analyzed for its contextual meaning. 

I think that the author is commenting on the prominence of the Democratic National Convention in the news and the dire need for governmental change. The comparison between Obama and LBJ recognizes an impending social revolution in my opinion.