(continued from previous post): I paused from the writing, as I thought I had finished for the night, and posted the segment to my blog. However, now that I began writing, it seems to have opened the gates of the process. The emotions are beginning to well up, although I have no definitions for what they are attached to, other than being around the project and – probably more to the fact, what I was exposed to during today’s interview.
I am still unable to put it all into words, as it would only sound trite in comparison to what really exists. On the surface, what Ken had to say was no different than watching a movie about World War II. It was so overwhelming that it takes some time to sink in. This was real life talking today. This was someone who lived through the ordeals that movies have been made about – and he told his stories without self-grandizing. This sharing of his experiences was not ego-based, or about Ken at all. His role in sharing the stories was so that others may know, and understand. It was also about paying tribute to all of the veterans who participated in that war. It is about remembering and paying honor to it all.
I am also happy to say that I am not finished with Ken. I have arranged to meet up with him, again – probably in late March, or early April, at his home in Illinois. The purpose for this visit will be to make a portrait of him, and to photograph the few artifacts that he has from his experience – including the identification papers he was issued by the Dutch Underground.
I also realized, after my interview today, what lies ahead for me – with regard to this project. The experience that I will have is one that I cannot begin to express my level of gratitude, and as with today, I remain humbled at having this opportunity. This is a story that I cannot wait to tell – in its entirety.
Until next time…
