Don McCullin: The Impossible Peace Hardcover – September 18, 2012

British photojournalist Don McCullin is famously known for his heavy, gritty, and dark images of war and urban turmoil. The reproductions within the pages of this photography book are of no exception as they were masterfully printed by McCullin himself in the wet-darkroom to reflect the despair he was feeling at the moment of capture. Photographed between 1958-2008, the images are mostly concentrated on the tragic consequences of war, human suffering, poverty, and famine unlike anything seen in todays heavily censored media. Also included, are architectural images and landscapes McCullin captured in his ladder years after deciding he no longer wanted document war.The purposefully moody and deep-toned images speak volumes into McCullin's wisdom as a photographer. They stir about emotions that cause one to reflect on the various aspects of the human condition. Although many of the images are disturbing, McCullin, with a keen eye, beautifully renders the subjects compassionately and respectfully. His careful compositions empathetically add a touch of gentleness to these unimaginable saturated moments of pain and strife.The images of the landscapes are just as dark and brooding. Although beautiful, in no way are they similar to the those that we as a society have grown accustomed to. They are flat and cold. Lifeless wonderments of lonliness representative of someone attempting to purge from their being the witnessing of five decades of mankind's unjust barbarity.In my opinion, this book is not depressing, inspirational, or uplifting as many have deemed McCullin's work. Nor does it aim to shock the viewer, although in many instances, I am sure that it will. I see this book as a harrowing account of the experiences of a photographer haunted by the aftermath of his life' story as reflected through the experiences of the lives of those he documented. It is indicative of a true humanitarian who made it his duty to reveal by his own eye-witness account a searing testemony of tremendous significance and importance.I recommend that you purchase, "The Impossible Peice", by Don McCullin as an exploration into this humble man's psyche and the world that he made his life long career.Respectfully,Jamusu.

Unfortunately for me, it doesnt show Don's amazing photos at their best. The prints are slightly on the dark side and I'm sure I can detect a feint background 'texture' on the photos as well. The book is in dual language, Italian and English and I seem to recall that the book was released to coincide with a photo exhibition. The range of photos is a good representation of the broad body of Don's work but ultimately for me, it was let down by the quality of the images.

Excellent book.

A wonderful book for professionals and amateurs alike. Gave this as a gift the recipient was delighted. It's a lovely book !

I have had the book for a while, can never get through it all in one go. Very powerful photography, a hero in the world of photography

Such an amazing book. Bought it as a present for a family member photographer who was inspired by him to become a photographer.