Experience of Modern Art
What identifying information can you supply about the photograph and the photographer?
The identifying information that I can supply concerning the photograph is that it was one of the greatest matches that Muhammad Ali ever played when he was young. Ali has always been a boxing legend who was known to have won many boxing matches. The photograph seems to be the greatest of the century because it captured an iconic moment when Ali, who was 23 years old at the time the photograph was taken squared off against Sonny Liston, who was 34 years old at the time. About the photographer, it is apparent that he was a great professional because, from the photo, the shot conveys the message that he intends to pass to whoever looks at it.
Why did you select this photograph to share and to write about?
I selected this photograph to share and to write about because of my love for Ali. Ali was so determined to win in every match, and he did not fret because of his opponents. Besides, the age of the opponents was nothing to Ali. Given that he had started the boxing sport at a tender age, Ali grew progressively in his career with little steps. Above all, he was also an inspiration to many other people who wish to excel in whatever they did.
What do you see in this photograph? Be sure to provide sufficient details.
In the photograph, I see that Ali has managed to win against his opponent, Liston. It is apparent because Liston is on the ground while Ali is standing, and this could probably mean that Ali managed to knock Liston down. I can also see that the spectators are many, and this could mean that the boxing match was a huge event. Many people had to go and watch this match because they did not want to miss it for anything in the world. The venue seems to be packed to capacity as many people turned up. Additionally, many photographers captured the event, and Neil Leifer was one of them.
What do you think and feel about this photograph?
My thoughts and feelings concerning this photograph are that it helps the boxing fans to understand the zeal that their legend had. Ali was given a competitor who was older than him by 11 years, and this did not deter his dream to emerge the victor in the match. I feel like this photograph is a constant reminder of the brevity that Ali depicted and the confidence that he had. Ali always knew that he would beat all his opponents no matter their age and expertise. I think that it is the message, which the photographer wanted to pass across.
What meaning does this photograph have for you?
The meaning that the photograph has for me is that it makes me think of the days when Ali made it big, even with his age. The photograph shows that Ali’s life started to shine earlier, also before he participated in this match. The photograph gives me hope that with determination and hard work, I will face the obstacles of life and manage to maneuver through the hardships that people often experience. The photograph brings a lot of hope, looking at it from Ali’s perspective.
What message do you think the photographer was trying to convey?
The message from the photographer is that age is just a number. People should not focus on the age of their components to much that they forget they are on the battlefield. Ali was too young to fight Liston, who probably had a lot of experience than him, given the age difference. Ali overcame all these challenges that he faced and managed to get through the match. His photograph is a great inspiration.
References
Leifer, n. (1965). Muhammad Ali vs. Sonny Liston. Retrieved from http://100photos.time.com/photos/neil-leifer-muhammad-ali-sonny-liston#photograph