Street reflections--Early New York City no number c. 1948 - 1951

This is Robert Frank's photographic film of early New York City, where reflections become more than just visual phenomena; they transform into potent symbols of doubling. Throughout the history of art and literature, reflections have represented the dual nature of existence. Think of Narcissus, captivated by his reflection, or the mirrored surfaces in Renaissance paintings, which hint at hidden aspects of reality. Here, in Frank's work, reflections in the streets are not mere replications of the world above; they are inverted, distorted glimpses into another dimension. This use of reflection invites a psychoanalytic interpretation, suggesting a collective unconscious where our deepest fears and desires are mirrored back at us. The city streets, with their ghostly reflections, evoke a sense of alienation and existential questioning. This visual echo touches something deep within our shared cultural memory, reminding us of the transient nature of life. These motifs evolve, and are passed down through history, shifting in meaning, yet ever-present in our cultural narrative.