When Day Breaks, We Must Go 18th-19th century

Curator: This is Francisco Goya's print, "When Day Breaks, We Must Go." Editor: It looks like a nightmare. All those grotesque figures huddled together under a star-filled sky. Curator: Note how the artist uses aquatint to achieve dramatic tonal contrasts. The composition itself creates a sense of unease, of huddling against the unknown. Editor: It's a powerful indictment of social injustice and the precarious lives of those on the margins. Goya witnessed firsthand the horrors of war and inequality, and this is a clear expression of that. Curator: Precisely. The figures are rendered with sharp lines and exaggerated features, heightening the grotesque nature of the scene. Editor: Looking at this, I think of marginalized communities seeking refuge, facing constant displacement. The inscription at the bottom—"If it dawns, we must leave"—it speaks to the ever-present threat of forced removal. Curator: Indeed, the formal elements amplify the thematic content, creating a truly unforgettable image. Editor: Yes, one that resonates deeply, even today.