This photograph of President George W. Bush represents the strength of our nation and the devotion that our President gives us. It depicts strength and perseverance through objects like the US flag standing tall in the background and the serious look President Bush has on his face. When looking at this picture, President Bush is the main focus, everything else is blurred in the background. Although the American flag is blurred, it is positioned in such a way that makes it become the second focus of the picture. The American flag represents the united front of American citizens, and how they will remain strong no matter what happens. The flag stands tall, much taller than President Bush in the photograph. He and the flag are the two subjects that grab your attention. President Bush is leaning toward the left and looking out of the corner of his eye, perhaps toward the camera. His eyes look glazed over and puffy; that's probably because he's been crying and is sleep deprived.  This photograph was taken September 13, 2001, two days after the attack on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon. This photograph presents a moment in history that we, as a nation, will never forget. There are many symbols within this photograph that represent the strength and power of the United States. The lighting and color of the photograph represent the aura of the nation after September 11th, 2001.

At the time this photograph was taken, the president was talking to Governor George Pataki and Mayor Rudolph Giuliani of New York. During the phone conversation, he thanked them for their leadership and dedication. He also announced that he would be in New York City the following day by saying, "I look forward to joining with both of you in thanking the police and fire, the construction trade workers, the restaurant owners, the volunteers -- all of whom Kuhn 2Kuhn 2have really made a huge display for the world to see of the compassion of America, and the bravery of America and the strength of America" (Bush, line 7). President Bush assures them that he is giving New York City whatever it needs, "I know you've put in a request, and I've directed the Attorney General to expedite any payments of benefits for those fallen public safety officers to their families, any benefits to their families.  And the Attorney General, as I understand it, will be making a formal announcement of your request today." He also assured them that he is working with Congress and was expediting supplemental funds so that the money could be distributed. (Bush, line 12)

There are many symbols represented in this photograph. The one that is most noticeable is his wedding band; it shines in this picture. It represents what America stands for. Although we love that he is a family man, this ring represents courage and being faithful, which he was doing for our country.  That is what we look for in a president; someone who is committed to his family, in hopes that he will be as equally committed to us as a nation. Being the leader of the free world is a tremendously stressful job, as you can see this from his appearance.  

The next symbol are the wrinkles on his forehead and we notice that his hair has become increasingly gray. He is not clean shaved, which suggests that he is stressed and worried about the country so much he hasn't had the time to shave. He is dedicating all of his time to the country's needs rather than his own.  At this time, everyone was looking to President Bush to get answers about why we had been attacked and what we were going to do to retaliate. The country was terrified and in mourning. In his televised phone conversation with Mayor Giuliani and Governor Pataki he said, "Let me make it clear to you all as my close friends that my mind set is this: one, I weep and mourn with America" (Bush, line 16). One other symbol is the lighting on the left, toward the flag and where he seems to be looking. It  appears as if the flag symbolize a Kuhn 3Kuhn 3bright future and better things are soon to come. And lastly this shot was taken at a lower angle, which suggests the country is looking up to him. This is fitting because everyone was looking to him for answers after the attacks on September 11th. 

Most importantly, this photo is dark and represents a dark time in America. The photographer kept this photo dark and shady, he did not decide to lighten this photo by adding a higher exposure. The mood of this photograph is presented by the darkness from this photograph. The country was mourning the death of its citizens. It was a hard time for America, but you can see in President Bush's face that he was confident that we would overcome this tragedy and there would be a bright future for America again. This photo represents the strength of our country and the dedication of the president and how much we admired him. The purpose of this photograph was to show the American people how diligently President George W. Bush was working to help the nation. He is brave and tenacious. This photograph was used to raise spirit and pride. This photo is patriotic and strong, which is how we see our nation.

During his conversation, President Bush spoke on the phone with the Governor Pataki and Mayor Giuliani to thank them for their services and to promise them that their servicemen would receive all the benefits they deserve. New York City was the United States' No. 1 priority after the September 11th attacks. As a nation we protect our own, we risk our lives to save others, and we stand strong at the sign of fear. This photo represents this perfectly. Elements like lighting, focus, and lighting within this photograph are symbolic to the United States and the American people. 

