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Tramp in a doorway, Balham, SW London
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Tramp in a doorway, Balham, SW London
A tramp sitting in a doorway of a house in Balham, SW London. Date: circa 1960s
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14189789
© The Paul Kaye Collection / Mary Evans Picture Library
Bags Balham Doorway Gloves Tramp Tramps Vagrant Vagrants
EDITORS COMMENTS
In this evocative photograph, taken in the 1960s, a tramp sits quietly in the doorway of a house in Balham, a suburban area in South West London. The tramp, dressed in tattered clothes and wearing a worn-out cap, sits with his back against the wall, his coat pulled tightly around him against the chill. In his hands, he cradles a small bag, possibly containing his meager belongings. A pair of worn gloves rests on the step next to him, suggesting that the cold weather has driven him to seek shelter in this unlikely place. The image captures a moment of stillness and quiet reflection in the midst of the hustle and bustle of urban life. The tramp's expression is one of contemplation, as if lost in thought or deep in prayer. The steps leading up to the house are worn and weathered, adding to the sense of age and history that pervades the scene. At the time this photograph was taken, Balham was a working-class area, and the presence of tramps and vagrants was a common sight on its streets. The photograph offers a glimpse into a bygone era, a time when poverty and hardship were more visible in the streets of London. It is a poignant reminder of the human cost of economic and social inequality, and the resilience and dignity of those who endure the hardships of poverty. The photograph also speaks to the rich history of Balham and its people, a history that is often hidden from view but remains an integral part of the area's character. It invites us to look beyond the surface of things and to appreciate the complexity and depth of the world around us. Overall, this photograph is a powerful and moving image that captures the essence of a bygone era and the human spirit that endures in the face of adversity. It is a testament to the power of photography to preserve history and to inspire reflection and empathy.
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