I Couldn't Hear Nobody Pray
1943
Black-and-white lithograph
13” x 10” plate
The studies and final print are interesting, and reveal the artist’s struggle to represent the soldier as a person in full control of his duty even when he knows he is going to die. A radio operator calmly transmits information back to his platoon from a small lean to in the jungle.
Ironic to see how the studies and final product reveal the deep contemplative faith expressed at a time of crisis. The artist’s notes include a telling comment about kidnapping this brave soldier’s ancestors from the jungles two hundred years ago for slavery, and sending him back to die for his country.
