We flatter ourselves.

The defiance of August Landmesser

An anticipation builds in the crowd as they eagerly await the appearance of their idol. The air is filled with a contagious excitement. He steps up to the microphone, and the crowd erupts in a cacophony of cheers, screams, and applause. The noise is overwhelming.

To be part of such a large and enthusiastic crowd fosters a sense of unity. Strangers become instant companions in the shared experience of this celebration. This collective passion creates a unique bond among everyone present.

The crowd’s energy is contagious, and each feel a rush of joy, excitement, or even a sense of awe. He becomes the focal point of everyone’s attention. The collective admiration and love from the audience can be overwhelming, and yet he waits in silence for the crowd to settle.

Another man stands in silence. This man stands not upon the stage but amongst the crowd. This man also stands apart, aloof, sceptical. His arms will remain folded across his chest whilst the crowd collectively raise a single arm in salute and in fealty to their idol. A photographer directs his camera to the adoring crowd, to capture this moment of dissent forever.

This man is August Landmesser. This is Germany, and it’s 1936.