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Michael Lesy

Wisconsin Death Trip

"Wisconsin Death Trip" by Michael Lesy is a haunting and evocative exploration of life in a small American town at the end of the 19th century. The book combines archival photographs and newspaper clippings from Black River Falls, Wisconsin, with Lesy's own narrative to create a vivid portrait of a community grappling with poverty, disease, and the harsh realities of life on the frontier. The photographs in "Wisconsin Death Trip" are striking in their starkness and simplicity. They depict ordinary people in everyday scenes, but the hardships of their lives are etched on their faces and in the barren landscapes that surround them. Lesy's use of these images, alongside newspaper reports of suicides, murders, and other sensational events, creates a sense of unease and disquiet that permeates the entire book. Lesy's narrative provides context and depth to the images and clippings he presents. He explores the social and economic factors that contributed to the poverty and despair experienced by the people of Black River Falls, including the failure of the farming industry and the harsh winters that made survival a struggle. Lesy also examines the role of the media in shaping public perception of events, highlighting the sensationalist nature of the newspaper reports and the impact they would have had on the community. "Wisconsin Death Trip" is not just a history of a particular place and time, but a meditation on the human condition. Lesy's use of primary sources allows the voices of the people of Black River Falls to speak for themselves, creating a powerful and poignant narrative that resonates with readers today. The book is a reminder of the struggles and hardships that have shaped American history, and the resilience and determination of those who have lived through them. Overall, "Wisconsin Death Trip" is a compelling and thought-provoking book that challenges readers to confront the darker aspects of American history. Its unique format and powerful narrative make it a standout work of creative nonfiction that will continue to captivate readers for years to come...