One of my questions about A Face In The Crowd focuses on humanity
and character. Was Lonesome always a
monster, or did he become one? What role did his television play in
his development as a character? A psych student would have a heyday
psychoanalyzing Lonesome's sociopathic (even psychopathic) personality.
Did television enable this metamorphosis? Or is it the power that
corrupted him? (Feel free to jump in anywhere-- I just wanted to get the
discussion going). It is definitely a timeless piece-- ahead of its
time, I'd say-- because it seems to be becoming increasingly relevant.
Media and politics have never been more tightly intertwined.
"Let us not forget that in TV we have the greatest instrument for mass persuasion in the history of the world."
I'm interested to see what people have to say in response to Jenny's questions--especially this question of what role television had in Lonesome's "downfall." Anyone?
ReplyDeleteThis issue is still prevalent in today's society. An individual goes from being a simple face in the crowd, literally and metaphorically, to being a central figure whom others admire, judge, criticize, question and loyally follow. When one is put into that leadership position, it is easy to become accustomed to the power and control that comes along with it. It is easy to lose who you are when every day millions of people are claiming you to be someone you are not or judging the little mistakes you make that any normal person could make and get away with. Just as I believe television was the reason rise in power, I think television was the reason for his fast downfall as well. Most people are not in the position that Lonesome was in. There are a lot of cruel people in the world but most are not society figures whom are followed, admired and judged on a consistent basis. If anyone else made similar comments few would take a second look but when a society figure makes those comments, millions are there to hear, judge, comment and question. Society determines power and though it is a privilege to be chosen, there is no guarantee society will not revoke that power just as quickly.
ReplyDeleteIn A Face in the Crowd, Lonesome found himself thrust into the spotlight from nothing. This is a concept that we can find in entertainment today, as well as in the lives of normal citizens. I do not believe that Lonesome was always a monster and think, like many others in our discussion group, that television had a huge role in his transformation. Performing for any audience, let alone a large one can take a toll on any individual. Wanting to please your audience in order to keep them, as well as your job, can cause even the most resolute personalities to dwindle. This is evident still in today’s society, and possibly at an all-new level. With the astronomical rise of social media, everyone now has an outlet to speak and post pieces of media. Gone are the days when someone has to watch live TV to find a scandal. Now, a celebrity’s social life is plastered all over the Internet and can be accessed at the click of a button. Fame has its perks, but can also be severely damaging to a person. What come to my mind right away are the instant lottery winners in the mega millions drawings. These people go from rags to riches and, unfortunately, find themselves in trouble soon after. Television, as one of the most widely used and recognized mediums of entertainment and news, can greatly alter a person’s life.
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