Past and Present
Images from Travels in the Middle East
The West Bank (né the Occupied Territories to some, or Palestine to others) is a cauldron of simmering conflict, oppression, resistance, protests, and sporadic violence, and now open warfare, whose origins go back several millennia or more but whose wounds are as fresh as yesterday. Both parties, the Israelis and Palestinians, lay claim to the land based on faith and both historical and legal precedence. Each party believes they are engaged in an existential battle. I have no stake in this conflict, nor do I have the knowledge, understanding or desire even to attempt to judge the merits of each party’s case.
Jordan is home to some of my personal favorite places, including Petra, Jerash, and Wadi Rum. For anyone interested in history, Jordan is a must-see.
My visits were strictly personal, with no political purpose or goal. I thought that the visits to the numerous historical sites and ruins throughout the region would be the most memorable parts of my travel, but equally remarkable was the kindness, openness, and hospitality of the people I met.
When I started taking the images in this book, I thought I was taking pictures of the past. Later, as I processed the images and started to sort them, I realized I was taking photos of the present. And now, that present is the past – thus the title “Past and Present.” I appreciate your interest, and I hope you enjoy the images.
