004 | Juxtaposition: The Art of Contrast

Welcome back to the blog! I've been doing a lot of reflecting on my writing and the tools that have truly inspired my creative process. One tool that stands out is juxtaposition—it’s become one of my favourite techniques. I first encountered it in senior English class, and since then, it’s not only shaped the way I approach literature but also how I see the world around me. By contrasting ideas, images, or themes, I discovered how every difference can portray a deeper message.

Why It Works 💭

Our brains are wired to seek patterns and meaning. When we see opposites side by side, we naturally connect them, sparking new ideas. Imagine a small flower growing from a crack in a concrete sidewalk—a simple yet striking symbol of hope. Research shows that our brains quickly detect contrasts, as demonstrated in studies of visual processing in the primary visual cortex (Hubel & Wiesel, 1959).

Juxtaposition in Action 🖌️

Music Videos

A standout example is Childish Gambino’s “This is America" (2018). In this video, the cheerful dance sequences are suddenly interrupted by shocking images of violence. This striking contrast forces viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about American society and its contradictions. The whole music is a masterpiece in choreography and has many layers in storytelling. Do give it a full watch!

Politics

One striking example is the infamous "Daisy" ad from 1964. Created for President Lyndon B. Johnson's campaign, it used the innocent image of a child alongside the grim image of nuclear conflict to suggest that Senator Barry Goldwater might lead the US into disaster. This powerful contrast not only critiqued his opponent's policies but also exemplified how politics naturally thrives on contrasts—comparing visions of the future to the present and past to influence public opinion. Some may even argue that politicians' actions often juxtapose their own messages—a topic for another day.

Art

Banksy is an anonymous England-based street artist known for his political and imaginative street art. He frequently employs juxtaposition, often blending playful, innocent imagery with darker themes such as urban decay or social injustice. One memorable instance is his piece " Love is in the Air" created in 2002, appearing in Jerusalem in 2003. The vibrance of the flower juxtaposes the image of the man throwing a grenade powerfully symbolizing peace and hope amid conflict.

Final Thoughts ⏿

Juxtaposition isn’t just about contrast—it’s about making ideas stand out. It forces one to think beyond the obvious and engage on a deeper level. Everywhere I look, I see ideas that stand out. That's the beauty of writing, it captures real life in our words. Hopefully, you enjoyed the read. Do let me know what examples you see of juxtaposition!