Help! My feelings are unarmed!

             Francisco de Goya created many emotionally moving pieces; however one that has an ability to swipe the viewer off their feet is, The third of May. At first glance the eye is drawn towards the bright white shirt of a pleading man. Next is a slight glance to the line of men armed and ready to fire. Finally the eye finds a slight discoloration to the ground, leading to a wonderful pile of bodies (about as wonderful as a pile of bodies can be). The faces of those behind the firing squad plead at your emotions, wanting to grab you and steal your current train of thought. To become lost in the piece and feel what those depicted are feeling. Then you are left there just gazing at the expressions of those on the chopping block, feeling as if you are at the front of the line just to the side of the executioners.

Stranded you try and find peace in the city cast in shadow or even within the bright lantern, which remains between both parties. Or maybe even in the ‘bring it on’ face displayed by the person standing next to the man in the white shirt. However you find that the only way out is to further absorb the painting. The scene depicted would make most with a heart feel empathy towards the suggested innocent. However you have already passed that phase and are now trying to find comfort with your newly wounded emotions, a theoretical bandage so to speak. You are viewing a piece of history you remind yourself. The emotional ride you have experienced has changed you for the better, don’t worry the ride is coming to a stop. Thank you for feeling with us and enjoy the rest of your day.