Title
Hard Ground,Used
Sold by Ergodebooks, an authorized reseller.
Returns accepted within 30 days | support@ergodebooks.com
Shipping Information
- Free Standard Shipping — United States only
- Processing Time: 1–3 business days
- Estimated Delivery: 3–5 business days after dispatch
- Double-boxed, fully insured & discreetly packaged
- Tracking number sent via email once dispatched
- Orders over $250 require signature upon delivery. Taxes calculated at checkout.
Returns & Refund
Returns accepted within 30 days of delivery.
Damaged or Defective Item
Free return shipping + replacement or full refund
Wrong Item Received
Free return shipping + replacement or full refund
Change of Mind
Return shipping at customer's expense · 25% restocking fee applies
Payment Option
Michael O'Brien got out of his car one day in 1975 and sought the acquaintance of a man named John Madden who lived under an overpass. Their initial contact grew into a friendship that O'Brien chronicled for the Miami News, where he began his career as a staff photographer. O'Brien's photo essays conveyed empathy for the homeless and the disenfranchised and won two Robert F. Kennedy Journalism Awards. In 2006, O'Brien reconnected with the issue of homelessness and learned the problem has grown exponentially since the 1970s, with as many as 3.5 million adults and children in America experiencing homelessness at some point in any given year.In Hard Ground, O'Brien joins with renowned singersongwriter Tom Waits, described by the New York Times as 'the poet of outcasts,' to create a portrait of homelessness that impels us to look into the eyes of people who live 'on the hard ground' and recognize our common humanity. For Waits, who has spent decades writing about outsiders, this subject is familiar territory. Combining their formidable talents in photography and poetry, O'Brien and Waits have crafted a work in the spirit of Let Us Now Praise Famous Men, in which James Agee's text and Walker Evans's photographs were 'coequal, mutually independent, and fully collaborative' elements. Letting words and images communicate on their own terms, rather than merely illustrate each other, Hard Ground transcends documentary and presents independent, yet powerfully complementary views of the trials of homelessness and the resilience of people who survive on the streets.
⚠️ WARNING (California Proposition 65):
This product may contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
For more information, please visit www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
- Q: What is the main theme of 'Hard Ground'? A: 'Hard Ground' explores the theme of homelessness through the collaboration of photographer Michael O'Brien and musician Tom Waits, highlighting the shared humanity of those living on the streets.
- Q: Who are the authors of 'Hard Ground'? A: 'Hard Ground' is authored by Michael O'Brien, a photographer, and Tom Waits, a renowned singer-songwriter, both of whom bring their unique perspectives to the subject of homelessness.
- Q: What type of binding does 'Hard Ground' have? A: 'Hard Ground' is available in a hardcover binding, providing durability and a premium feel.
- Q: How many pages are in 'Hard Ground'? A: 'Hard Ground' contains 184 pages, featuring a combination of powerful photography and poetry.
- Q: When was 'Hard Ground' published? A: 'Hard Ground' was published on March 1, 2011.
- Q: What is the condition of the book listed for sale? A: The book is in 'Good' condition, indicating that it has been used but remains functional and visually appealing.
- Q: Is 'Hard Ground' a first edition? A: 'Hard Ground' is a first edition, making it a valuable addition for collectors and readers interested in unique literary works.
- Q: What kind of photography can be found in 'Hard Ground'? A: 'Hard Ground' features empathetic photography that aims to convey the struggles and resilience of homeless individuals.
- Q: What distinguishes 'Hard Ground' from typical photography books? A: 'Hard Ground' distinguishes itself by combining visual storytelling with poetic elements, allowing both images and words to stand independently while complementing each other.
- Q: Can 'Hard Ground' be suitable for educational purposes? A: 'Hard Ground' can be suitable for educational purposes, particularly in discussions about social issues, homelessness, and the role of art in advocacy.