A long time ago in a country far, far away there was an iconic photo taken of President John F. Kennedy. At the time Kennedy was dealing with the heavy pressure of the cold war and the impending invasion of Cuba that culminated in the “Bay of Pigs” crisis not to mention the “Berlin Crisis” that followed shortly thereafter. Back then his was termed “the loneliest job in the world”.
I thought of that photo when I saw Peter Bishop standing in front of his window trying to come to grips with the loss of Olivia by the hand of his own father. Add to this burden the impending crisis of the world tearing itself apart at the seams by the destruction of the so called “Red Universe”.
You’ll note to Peter’s right there is a globe of our planet on a table symbolizing the now one world that exists and the burden placed upon Peter by his actions. Compare and see for yourself . Comments are most welcome. (Click on photos to see enlarged versions.)
Dave,
This is a very good comparison, and kudos to you for finding the obvious resemblance to the photo of Jack!
There is, however, one difference I see between the two figures, and that is of their body language. President Kennedy is exhausted, alone, and his bowed head is giving the impression that he feels defeated. In contrast, Peter is alone, but he is erect, and he is facing the light coming from the “outside world,” the one world for which he feels responsible, and that he feels obligated to save. He is not defeated, rather just injured.
What do you think?
I knew when I saw that scene of Peter that it looked very familiar. That picture of JFK has always had a special place in my heart. What a burden must be the presidency. JFK chose to take on the weight of the world. Peter was thrust into taking on the weight of the worlds..A very weighty comparison. I like it.
@October, Thanks for the “kudos”. I’m up on my JFK because I’m a little older and taller than I appear. The real reason for JFK’s body language is a little pedestrian. I prefer the legend. But you make a good point. Their physical stature in the face of adversity is telling. It might be helpful to remember that one was elected to lead while the other took the responsibility on his own.
@Lindaislost, It does sound like that we are of same mind. Thanks for your comments.
My husband was looking over my shoulder at the Peter picture and he said “Put a hat on Peter and who does he look like?”. Hmmm, good obeservation or no?
@Inky, If you are thinking Don Draper, that opens up a whole new universe of possibilities. (A grey flannel one!)