The photograph “V-J Day in Times Square” taken by Alfred Eisentaedt on August 14, 1945 and was originally published through LIFE magazine two weeks later. Though the photograph was originally published through LIFE, it remains a famous photo showing the joy and relief due to announcement of the end of World War II. (Original Publication not found through LIFE/TIME) Figure 1. Image from The LIFE Picture Collection The photograph taken by Alfred Eisentaedt symbolizes the joy created by Japan surrendering minutes before, announced by President Truman. The black and white photo creates a memorable moment through emotion and the relief of the biggest war the soldiers would fight in their lives. Additionally, as the war came to an end, the anger they had, turned into happiness and hope. The famous photograph has a powerful meaning, freedom in the eyes of the beholder. The photo has another straightforward theme, freedom through …show more content…
The decision to drop not one, but two atomic bombs, as a decision that is depressing and cruel. Yet, the outcome of Japan surrendering was celebration through drinking, dancing, and celebrating with friends while Japan’s citizens were killed and fatherless. Imagine having to live life after such a horrific event, losing a parent or two? As George Mendonsa and Greta Zimmer are pictured kissing, the symbolism is that in that moment, the country was overflowing with life, youth, and excitement where anything seemed possible. To conclude, the photo of “The Kiss,” was a celebratory photo, yet also had a dark undertone. The tone of strength, freedom, happiness, and victory symbolized the end of a long battle. The war was over and as they were celebrating, yet there were other innocent lives taken. The photo is a very iconic and memorable photo depicting the end of the war and the beginning of a new