Saint Patrick's Day parade--New York City 2 17 - 1959

Robert Frank, the Swiss-American photographer, created this photo collage, "Saint Patrick's Day parade--New York City 2", with black and white photographs. Frank's work often explored themes of alienation and cultural identity within American society. Here, strips of film capture a festive yet fragmented scene: the Saint Patrick's Day parade in New York City. Frank, an immigrant himself, presents a somewhat detached view of this very American celebration of Irish heritage. The rows of images evoke a sense of motion and disjointed memories, mirroring the immigrant experience of piecing together a new identity while holding onto cultural roots. American flags appear alongside indistinct figures, suggesting a complex relationship between patriotism, belonging, and cultural assimilation. It feels a bit like wandering through a crowded street, catching glimpses of the parade, the city lights, and the faces in the crowd. The high contrast amplifies the emotional tension. Ultimately, Frank invites us to reflect on what it means to participate in public rituals, especially when navigating questions of identity and cultural heritage in a new land.