Category: Literature/Classic American Literature. Let Us Now Praise Famous Men is a classic piece of literature that explores the lives and struggles of tenant families in the Deep South during the Great Depression. The book was written by James Agee, with photographs taken by Walker Evans, and it has become an enduring symbol of the human condition during this difficult time in American history. The book is divided into three parts, each focusing on a different family: Cotton Tenants, Three Families, and And Their Children After Them. In Cotton Tenants, Agee and Evans introduce us to the lives of three tenant families who are struggling to survive during the Great Depression. They describe the harsh living conditions that these families endure, including poverty, hunger, and disease. Through their words and photographs, we see the resilience and determination of these people, despite the overwhelming odds stacked against them. In Three Families, Agee and Evans delve deeper into the lives of each family, providing more detailed accounts of their struggles and experiences. They explore themes such as poverty, racism, and the impact of industrialization on rural communities. Through their writing and photography, they paint a vivid picture of life in the Deep South during this time period. And Their Children After Them is the final section of the book, and it provides a reflection on the legacy of the families featured in the previous sections. Agee and Evans examine how these families have been affected by the passage of time, and they consider the broader implications of their struggles for future generations. This section is both poignant and thought-provoking, as it forces us to confront the ongoing impact of poverty and inequality on American society. One of the most striking aspects of Let Us Now Praise Famous Men is its use of language and imagery. Agee's writing is lyrical and evocative, bringing the struggles of these families to life in a way that is both powerful and emotional. The photographs taken by Walker Evans are equally compelling, providing a visual record of the living conditions and hardships faced by these people. Together, the words and images create a vivid and immersive portrait of life in the Deep South during the Great Depression. Despite its age, Let Us Now Praise Famous Men remains relevant today. The themes explored in the book are still relevant, as poverty and inequality continue to be pressing issues in American society. By examining the struggles of these families, Agee and Evans offer a powerful commentary on the human condition, and they remind us of the importance of empathy and understanding in our relationships with others. In conclusion, Let Us Now Praise Famous Men is a classic piece of literature that continues to resonate with readers today. Its use of language and imagery, combined with its powerful exploration of themes such as poverty, racism, and the impact of industrialization on rural communities, make it an enduring symbol of the human condition during difficult times in American history.