My Journey (Lesson 4): Juxtaposition

In my point of view, juxtaposition is simply the idea of putting two contrasting ideas side by side. I did learn a lot about juxtaposition. Though it is hard for me to explain in words, I will try to explain in various form of examples. 1. David Macaulay (a Master Illustrator that is best known for his books that explain complex things—like buildings and bridges and bodies—in a simple, visual way). His book:

Rome Antics is amazing. As readers follow the path of a pigeon carrying an important message through the streets of Rome, they discover a fascinating city that has been recycling itself for more than 2,000 years. This juxtaposition of the ancient and the modern, as seen with Macaulay's ingenious vision, provides an imaginative and informative journey through this most wonderful of cities.


2. A photograph by Phil Douglis,

Mailman, Tucson, Arizona, 2009

By juxtaposing a mailman sorting mail as he energetically strides to his next destination, with a stereotypical cartoon on the wall of a Mexican restaurant, I contrast the presence of hard work to a restaurant sign that speaks of “no work”. While we were surprised to find such ethnic stereotyping in Tucson, which is one-third Hispanic, perhaps political correctness has yet to take effect this close to the Mexican border. Or maybe the cartoon on the wall of this 76 year old landmark restaurant has been there so long that it is now just seen as part of the urban landscape.

So, tell me what do you think of juxtaposition? Mind to share your examples? :)