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Marc Murison's avatar

Fascinating! I know bupkis about 19th century photography, so I I'll be getting a copy of her book. Imagine: 19th century paparazzi, of all things! I do prefer "fiend", though, for the peeping Toms that "have few skills and even fewer manners". I think it deserves a comeback.

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Andreas Olesen's avatar

I would like to read this book because I haven’t read anything like it!

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Paula Goldman's avatar

Terrific excerpt! Thanks for sharing this. Such a dark side to the invention of photography…

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Andy Adams's avatar

There is certainly more than one. I agree, this is a terrific piece. Thanks for reading, Paula!

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roxanne k's avatar

What a fun essay! This quote cracked me up right out of the gate 😂 . One journal described the fiend as someone who “delights in portraying his acquaintances in all sorts of ridiculous situations.”

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