Å@

Sontag, Susan. "In Plato's Cave" from On Photography. New York: Doubleday, 1990. pp. 3 - 24

"In Plato's Cave" delves into all aspects of photography. It discusses what a photo is, the aim of photography, the social aspects of photography, the changing role of the camera, and the impact photos have on our lives. While these categories seem rather simple Sontag actually makes rather insightful statements. A photograph is not merely a picture of a place but rather an "experience captured," emotions and all. Photography's aim differed from previous art forms in the fact it attempted to "democratize all experiences by translating them into images." There is no bibliography listed for the work. Several people who have contributed to the field of photography are mentioned, but it is impossible to determine exactly where Sontag gained her information. Sontag is a writer known for her philosophical works about modern society. In her work it is her aim to show the vast scope of photography. The camera is not merely a machine that paints pictures of the world; it paints pictures of all of life's experiences. This article is not just for professional photographers or hobbyists, it is intended for anyone who knows what a camera is. The work is academic, yet has some entertainment value. However, to call it leisure reading would be a stretch.

The work's strength is in the fact that it is easy to understand. In dealing with a field such as photography the use of technical jargon and bombastic language is all too easy, yet Sontag avoids these pitfalls. Therefore, the article becomes applicable to a wider audience of laypeople. "In Plato's Cave" is very useful in establishing an introduction to the study of photography or to merely open one's eye to all the implications of the photography.

George McElroy