Tuesday, January 07, 2014

Substance or vapor?

For years I've considered the cover selection policy for TIME magazine fascinating, and a barometer of U. S. culture and values.

That said, the contrast between TIME's first domestic cover of 2014 compared to its "world" cover feels unsettling.

Just possibly in the contrast we find an indicator of the depth of our national frivolity in view of our very real and largely unaddressed issues/challenges.

Take a look here and then let me know what you think?

1 comment:

Cathy Sweeney said...

While I don't disagree with the premise here, Larry, I believe one of the objectives of Time covers is to document cultural shifts, in part to draw traditionally 'non-newsies' to the magazine, sell it, and read the interior. Meyers may be the unquestionable focal point on the cover, but he will also draw many to read the interior, which does focus on the more global goals of 2014. We have to start somewhere - drawing people in for conversation starts with finding something in common, doesn't it?