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| 51 |

life & death

homeless man in tenderloin just diagnosed with cancer, san francisco, june 2006

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homeless james from virginia in the tenderloin; goes by "bags." he's 44. james has been in sf since he was 16 when he got out of juvenile detention. he was locked up from the age of 12. he started shooting up when he was 11. he drove out to sf with a girl he had started dating at the time who had just gotten out of college. says "i was a goodlooking kid."

james says his father was a sniper in vietnam who had 163 kills for the cia. he agrees his dad was "hardcore." james learned to fight from him. they had a falling out and don't speak any longer. james' mother was a stripper.

james used to love to keep animals and guns. he would collect both. he had dogs, cats, rats, etc. but he went through a bad period where he was really tweaked out on drugs and he killed them all. he didn't shoot them; he strangled them. says he feels bad about it.

says he doesn't feel bad about the men he's killed. the one he killed in prison was a child molester who had raped a 6 year old boy. it was a hit and he carried it out with no reservations. he stabbed the man through the back of the neck with a pick axe or some such. says he still remembers the sound as the axe went through the man's neck and grated into the bed. the spiderweb prison tattoo on his neck is a "badge of honor" which commemorates the kill.

i took to james immediately. he is friendly, open and warm. he says he'll have my back if i should ever need him. he introduced me to his friends as he walked the street looking for a fix. he says he has "a lot of hatred and a lot of happiness." he agrees it's a strange mix.

he doesn't mind people taking his picture. "people say it's stealing your soul; but my soul ain't worth nothing."

but he says he thinks he has goodness in him. "i'm a motherfucker, but i'm good to women and old people. i always give up my seat on the bus. and i'm good to my friends."

james is dying of colon cancer. he has a tumor "the size of a grapefruit" which was caught too late. says he's "pissing and shitting blood." but he says he doesn't care. "why should i care? i've had it bad and i could complain, but plenty have had it worse than me."

he figures he'll be dead within the year.

(6/5/06)

193 Flickr comments:

fernbank99 says:

Just come across your pictures not sure how and they are fascinating combined withthe narrative. Well done.

...posted 6/19/2010 6:45:35 PM

kk7k says:

Hi, I'm an admin for a group called MY FLICKR FAV's , and we'd love to have this added to the group!

...posted 3/18/2010 12:52:29 AM

mumi ne says:

what a story, amazing.

...posted 6/7/2009 4:57:47 PM

roberthuffstutter says:

Hi, I'm an admin for a group called WORLDZBESTFOTOZ, and we'd love to have this added to the group!

...posted 5/2/2009 12:06:21 PM

roberthuffstutter says:

Impressive. You are a photo-humanitarian-journalist. Congratulations...You are not wasting your life. Rob

...posted 5/2/2009 12:05:57 PM

Bryan Trismegistus says:

Just wanted to add my voice to the acclaim. Didn't want to say anything greatly different from the other voices here. The photo is technically brilliant, the story touching and interesting, the man is an honest man.

Comments are like applause, you deserve a standing ovation for this.

...posted 3/23/2009 5:28:45 PM

Rachel Roberts 14 says:

such a sad story. he has such an interesting history is sad to know that he has cancer but he doesnt feel lik complaining cause he has seen people with worse. great picture though!

...posted 3/15/2009 6:38:25 AM

snapshots by Kylie says:

Hi, I'm an admin for a group called **Neck Tattoos**, and we'd love to have this added to the group!

...posted 3/8/2009 10:05:17 PM

el mattadore says:

any update on "bags"??

...posted 3/4/2009 2:41:00 AM

Beav1s says:

Amazing...

...posted 1/19/2009 10:16:15 AM

Geeky Pete (PeterEdin) says:

I think the families of his victims would disagree. The opposite of bad is good, I don't think he falls in that category....and hes a junklie.

With a story like that, I feel sorry for him...not!!

...posted 1/9/2009 7:38:59 AM

Forget Me Not Photography Bristol, VA says:

How sad, Is he still alive? He has kind eyes, and just because he has done bad things doesnt mean he is a bad person. I feel for him, I wish he would have been dealt a better hand in life

...posted 1/4/2009 10:58:15 PM

unforeseen circumstances says:

great, what a legend

...posted 1/1/2009 8:22:56 PM

DaríoMartínez says:

impresionante tu galeria.

...posted 11/13/2008 1:59:13 PM

Fifi Patchouli ☠ says:

Fantastic portrait!

...posted 10/31/2008 10:58:25 PM

[my name is ludo] says:

Hi, I'm an admin for a group called Stories retold, and we'd love to have this added to the group!

these visual stories are just something very deep. thanks

...posted 10/2/2008 9:27:53 AM

johey24 says:

Lovely. as all of your work. Please have a look at our site and see if there is anything you wanna share there.

I love this photo. Truly a man with Soul!
If you have the time, please add your photo to our Group, SMOTD at SMOTD Soul Man of the Day Group)

...posted 8/16/2008 3:50:16 PM

Ema Suvajac Photography says:

Your photo of james is amazing. And thank you for telling his story, too!

I think if it weren't for his teeth, he'd really look young for his age! :)

...posted 7/24/2008 2:14:14 AM

johey24 says:

Hi, I'm an admin for a group called www.flickr.com/groups/347754@N20/, and we'd love to have this added to the group!

Lovely!

...posted 7/23/2008 1:04:56 AM

Serge-Henri Bouvet says:

Great picture to illustrate the urban life

...posted 6/26/2008 12:48:17 PM

INDUSTRIA TRASH_nosotros te amamos says:

This is old school aqui en colombia ahi bastantes

...posted 5/14/2008 8:16:29 PM

Geeky Pete (PeterEdin) says:

I think I'll avoid SF on my next vacation.

...posted 4/29/2008 6:43:53 AM

kevindemattia says:

Just hung out w/this guy today in the TL..name is James.
He is Harley Flanagan's brother...Harley from the Cro Mags.
His tumor is in remission. He's currently housed in a Section 8 building (low income). Lost the rest of his teeth in a streetfight (against 3 guys) a few months ago. Currently undergoing dental work and should soon have dentures. Trying to better himself.
Very nice guy; open, honest, sincere.

...posted 3/31/2008 1:27:54 AM

andrews babygirl says:

this is absolutely amazing.

...posted 3/25/2008 12:27:20 AM

taguro izumo final says:

Hi, I'm an admin for a group called Tattoo Universe, and we'd love to have your photo added to the group.

...posted 2/8/2008 1:51:29 PM

niquezilluh says:

oh my god. what a captivating story.

...posted 2/6/2008 1:00:56 AM

stevguy2000 says:

WOW

...posted 2/3/2008 1:17:06 AM

HeadOvMetal says:

Hi, I'm an admin for a group called Tattoos Above the Collar, and we'd love to have your photo added to the group.

...posted 1/9/2008 11:52:04 PM

awohlfarth1 says:

Amazing.

...posted 1/2/2008 2:19:50 AM

leilei photography says:

if you could steal a soul what a nice one to have, God bless him.

...posted 12/28/2007 11:42:02 PM

SuperKarmen says:

impressive.

...posted 12/28/2007 8:21:02 PM

Sweet_chicago1 says:

We take so much for granted in everyday life..what a great story!! Sad that children are neglected in there youth and turn out to have the worst luck in the world....!! Hope he's ok...although i noticed this was about 1year ago!! Greart Work!!

...posted 11/9/2007 8:09:50 PM

ihatepeppers says:

Very rarely do you stumble across a photographer on flickr who is so brave, courageous and honest in both their work and their attitude towards life- you photostream is not only outstanding but an inspiration to anyone wishing to capture reality, the darker side of everyday life which quite often just passes us by unnoticed! Congratulations to you on so many levels!!!!

...posted 11/4/2007 11:37:45 AM

www.mayaibuki.com says:

i love the history

...posted 9/28/2007 10:29:20 AM

www.mayaibuki.com says:

cool

...posted 9/28/2007 10:25:46 AM

MDmicC says:

beautiful picture... great contrast

...posted 9/11/2007 12:32:15 PM

Christine Lebrasseur says:

Hi, I'm an admin for a group called 200+ Faves 1-2-3 (Post one,Comment and Fave two), and we'd love to have your photo added to the group.

--
Seen in your poverty (all) set. (?)

Your fantastic portrait picture is my winner! Please add this photo to http://www.flickr.com/groups/portraitaward/
[?]

...posted 8/8/2007 7:21:40 AM

Christine Lebrasseur says:

Hi, I'm an admin for a group called ╠ 1 year ago- 1 an déjà- Hace 1 año ╣, and we'd love to have your photo added to the group.

--
Seen in a discussion of ╠ 1 year ago- 1 an déjà- Hace 1 año ╣. (?)

...posted 8/8/2007 7:21:03 AM

blahdjkshgfkjsahadi says:

I just can't believe some of the comments here...focusing only on the quality of the photo (stunning, of course) and missing the point of these individuals' situations:( As if some fake models have posed for the photos and not homeless, distressed people. It feels like they're being "ignored" virtually too..not just in real life.

ps: and tfranco...grow up, dude! You're as good at Psychology 101 as a horse's....ear. No one becomes homeless by their own making...it took them years to slide slowly. They are/have been mentally ill (depressed, abused, traumatised either early on in life-which screwed them up big time or later -which led to some nervous breakdown) or otherwise they'd be able to hold down a simple job. You are simply IGNORANT when you say these people should have been able to pick themselved up:( Sorry!

...posted 7/3/2007 8:24:15 PM

$pecial K says:

GReat photo and text...my question is,is he dead yet?

...posted 6/21/2007 12:05:48 AM

bloodCELL says:

What a beautiful human being.

I love photos like this; combined with the narrative, it is no less than extraordinary.

...posted 6/14/2007 9:52:10 PM

Shannon Dagher says:

What an amazing story...I wish I knew him. Thank you for introducing us. :)

--
Seen on your photo stream. (?)

...posted 6/4/2007 8:21:23 AM

Aaron_M says:

I wrote a poem for Writer's Craft class based on your photo:

A grizzled chin
Thinning hair
Hiding under a worn hat
Worn features
Lifetimes etched in his face.

Gaps in his teeth
From fights in jail
Out on these streets
Trying to get a fix
To help him forget
When his father
Shot his mother.

But still something
Shines behind his eyes.
Dying of cancer
Only a few teeth left
He still smiles.
He must know something
No one else knows.

I got a 85! Thanks for your great photo.

...posted 5/3/2007 12:51:12 AM

Diego Patagónico says:

ohhh, poor man... he looks funny and sad at the same time, I feel pity for him. I would like to hug him.

...posted 5/2/2007 10:28:26 PM

Påĺm†ŕèêҒяẻąҝ says:

are u kidding me?? these people dont deserve this, it make me wanna cry...i cant believe he is going to die...i want sumone to save him...many of these people are so peaceful with knowing that they will die.. they know they will go somwhere better where the hurt goes away...i hope when the time comes he will go pianlessly and peacefully...that makes me feel a little better about this guys death.....

he doesn't mind people taking his picture. "people say it's stealing your soul; but my soul ain't worth nothing."
but he says he thinks he has goodness in him. "i'm a motherfucker, but i'm good to women and old people. i always give up my seat on the bus. and i'm good to my friends."

i think hes wrong when he says his sould aint nothing, and i beileve there is goodness in everyone, and its shows it throught this photo, and the fact that he gives to more fortunate people and some dont give back makes me angry...he seems generous

this man may be a killer and a druggee but who cares?...he killed a man to stand up for what he believes in...and if u go that far to stand up for what u believe then u are bold and determined...sure its VERY wrong but how could u not love a face like this? and with a story like that?

beautiful pic! =)

...posted 4/14/2007 3:49:23 AM

Caffiend73 says:

Thank you.

...posted 3/29/2007 5:32:19 AM

artOtek says:

You're so talented... another great one!

...posted 3/28/2007 9:05:36 AM

amyeee says:

Truly great art helps to rewire your brain.

A great work will purge your past, your lessons learnt and your prejudices into a sorting area. The artist's hands re-arrange snippets of imagery and conversation into a new filing system. You cringe. Your eyes become cloudy and your heart starts to sting. You finally take a breath after what seems to be the longest time...

Thank you for serendipitously rewiring my brain this morning with your important, important work.

...posted 3/23/2007 11:50:00 AM

lifeeee says:

favorite.

...posted 3/19/2007 9:38:49 PM

Weird Rock´n´Roll says:

Wow....what an intensive portrait!
Love it!
Very impressive in B&W....wow.
Fave.

...posted 3/3/2007 12:11:00 PM

M.Roemer says:

I really appreciate the depth you go into getting to know the people you photograph and passing it on to those who look at their images.

Amazing work.

...posted 2/9/2007 7:16:17 PM

LeeAnnaBell says:

WOW.. very touching

...posted 1/11/2007 1:54:21 PM

MACtoons says:

Very amazing. Such an emotional piece.

...posted 1/10/2007 1:07:30 AM

Aaron_M says:

Touching, immensely sad story.
Wonderful, beautifully shot photo.
This is really fantastic.

...posted 1/4/2007 7:22:06 PM

luckygirllefty says:

Hurts my heart...powerful.Thank YOU for these!

...posted 12/15/2006 9:13:11 PM

BellaGaia says:

tfranco -- I don't mean this as a personal gripe about you -- I think many people share your view..... weighing and judging others conditions and circumstances by how much of their own choosing got them there . Feeling badly - do people do something to help when they feel badly or just feel bad? Is the feeling badly or not, some measure of justification for us to sit in our comfortable surroundings and somehow feel like while we acknowledge the horrible condition of this person's life, it's his own fault so there's some deserved consequences there that can make us feel "better" about it. I would say that Feeling Badly or Feeling Good about what we see in Stoneth's photostream is not the goal. it's great to feel and I think the most important thing is to feel connected.
I have never taken the time to sit and hear a story from a homeless person. These photos allow me to stare without being rude. They give me an awareness of this person's being that I would never experience on my own.
Bags has made his good contribution to us if ONE person hears his story and decides to avoid drugs. Drugs have ruined many lives -- one of which was my own mother. Many probably wouldn't have felt badly for her either.
Please don't feel that I'm critcizing you, tfranco. I'm not -- your words just created a lot of thought for me.

...posted 12/14/2006 6:15:50 PM

tfranco says:

Many of the homeless in SF are there for reasons entirely of there own making.

While I still feel badly for most of the people featured in your stream I don't feel very badly about this fellow.

...posted 12/14/2006 1:01:27 AM

Peter Macdonald Photo says:

amazing shots of unlucky people - reminds us all how lucky we are when we see people like that who don't complain cause they think there's people worse of than themselves. so sad.

...posted 11/28/2006 10:13:12 AM

waking_dream says:

Much respect.

...posted 11/25/2006 7:49:55 AM

themostro says:

poor man..

he looks happy.

cancer is a shit.

...posted 11/23/2006 10:33:53 PM

jennifer buehrer says:

wow what a story.... Wow

...posted 11/2/2006 1:41:09 PM

manic division says:

These are some amazing pictures - compelling and emotive. I really admire your photography skills. Great work

...posted 9/21/2006 5:21:47 PM

the hesitations and digressions says:

do you have a book? are you making a book? you need to!

...posted 9/5/2006 5:17:37 AM

parade in the sky says:

another amazing image and story; really heartbreaking.

...posted 9/5/2006 4:46:30 AM

~*Denise*~ says:

very touching.... great story to go with the picture. Thank you for sharing.

...posted 9/3/2006 2:44:02 AM

WomanChild says:

I'm so awed by your work. Brilliant and provocative stuff.

...posted 9/1/2006 10:09:10 PM

TG1203 says:

I was wonder if I could use this image on my website, and the story, you will get full credit.

...posted 8/29/2006 8:58:53 PM

Kim The Star Princess says:

You are amazing. Don't ever stop taking pictures.

...posted 8/28/2006 7:44:57 AM

stoneth says:

AntiGallery SF: none... different Bags :)

...posted 8/24/2006 7:16:32 AM

antigallery says:

Did 'Bags' have any racist or skinhead tattoos? There was a (in)famous S.F. Skin named Bags here in the 80's...met him but don't remember his looks - wonder if it's the same person?

...posted 8/24/2006 1:38:38 AM

Lette Moloney says:

*I try not to curse on here, but SHIT!! thats hard hitting, do u not worry ur gonna pick the wrong person to take photos of someday?? ur work is amazing, but be carefull u know!!

...posted 8/18/2006 12:08:10 AM

AlexRan says:

I would love to spend a day taking pictures with you. This is good shit.

...posted 8/15/2006 7:47:21 AM

[stelka] says:

the story, the reality, the face, the shot .... so close to me. wonderful and tragic.

...posted 8/5/2006 8:37:02 AM

LOlandeseVolante says:

Great photo and touching story. Makes me think about some people I know complaining about their lives...

...posted 8/4/2006 11:00:47 AM

Ecks Y Z says:

Powerful.

...posted 8/4/2006 7:23:37 AM

SUGARLISTIC MCCOLLUM G says:

Oh my god so many comments!!! I will leave one too!! I love his tatoo but not what it represents. I can understand killing a child molester if it was your child he molested. ok, I could go on but Im not gonna.

...posted 7/31/2006 1:59:21 AM

BellaGaia says:

i admire your ability to talk to people and get their story -- so many people would just sneak a shot in but to get to know his story is a beautiful thing -- you make him (and all of the other people you photograph) REAL for all of us -- thank you

...posted 7/28/2006 2:00:52 AM

Steh says:

he looks so happy in the photo...
hard to believe...

...posted 7/27/2006 10:51:42 PM

Tony_ia says:

WOW...such a great photo, and story.

...posted 7/22/2006 12:45:02 AM

etylee says:

He looks friendly, open and warm, as you said. Yet he is dying. There's lot of strength in him. One of the very best pictures in this series.

...posted 7/21/2006 2:20:03 AM

dou_ble_you says:

Hey, it's a powerfull stuff. I mean not just this photo but the whole set. Are you familiar with "Granta", literary magazine? They publish cutting edge literature (about 70% pure journalism) and have a regular documentary photo section. Your photos could contribute immensely. Try it!! Check www.granta.com/. Their address in the States is Granta US, 1755 Broadway, 5th Floor, New York, NY 100019-3780.

...posted 7/20/2006 11:04:29 AM

camdens_mom says:

His eyes show happiness. His story seems to me to be the truth that is in all of us, but we don't all act it out. We all are a mix of hatred, happiness, and love whether we admit it or not.

...posted 7/12/2006 6:23:02 PM

Robert Lio says:

what a story!! And we all think we have it bad.

Great work, I tip my hat to you once again.

...posted 7/12/2006 1:54:46 PM

Andy Frazer says:

Your whole Poverty group is outstanding work. It reminds me of one of the books that got me really turned on to photography about 15 years ago: Richard Avedons' "American West". So much poverty photography these days is exploitive, but your work is great. Keep it up. I'm looking forward to keeping an eye on your new Flickr photographs.

...posted 7/7/2006 3:31:41 PM

Martin Bahl says:

outstanding documentary

...posted 7/5/2006 8:35:42 PM

k.a.r.e.n says:

i love that u care to get to know ur subjects.,.....u jsu dont shoot them to make a good picture and then walk away, liek most of us do.....ur fabulous.

...posted 7/5/2006 4:16:17 PM

GothamOddISee says:

Excellent.

...posted 6/27/2006 4:35:37 PM

Hypnotic Aubergine says:

Man...

...posted 6/27/2006 8:39:53 AM

Lapsklaus says:

I'm sitting here with constant chills down my spine. Fantastic portrait (both photo&text)

...posted 6/21/2006 11:08:31 AM

dimitrius says:

I don't know what's more a badge of honor, that tat or his mouth. damn.

...posted 6/20/2006 11:39:50 PM

cathy.h says:

Great portraits, touching stories! Congratulation!

...posted 6/20/2006 3:06:55 PM

ArcherPhoto says:

Impressive.

...posted 6/20/2006 11:34:10 AM

alonsodr says:

Excellent picture!! And an amazing story... Your work is really art, my friend! Thanks!

...posted 6/20/2006 9:18:33 AM

CatDancing says:

Your pictures and stories continue to move me. Thanks for sharing. Wow.

...posted 6/15/2006 2:19:16 PM

jinxmcc says:

The story may be fable woven from the shocks and blows of a battered life, nothing may be true, everything may be true. His face and the fact that he spoke with you is true.
Hold your hand over the picture and look at each side of his face separately. His eyes alone, frightening, I can believe his harshest story. But who knows, one needs to not be vulnerable. The different people we each are, perhaps more extreme here.
Tomas, you are a wonder, you are carrying blazing coals and showing us, and showing us ourselves by their light. Tomas, find time to be good to yourself, you have many other stories to tell.

...posted 6/15/2006 9:01:13 AM

Nekominn says:

holy crap your work is so powerful!

...posted 6/14/2006 10:16:45 PM

lama DK says:

Depressingly amazing

...posted 6/14/2006 1:10:16 PM

3blindmice says:

You talked to my heart stoneth...thank you!

...posted 6/13/2006 11:44:11 AM

muskva says:

speachless again and again and again... each of your portraits is perfect.

...posted 6/13/2006 9:12:56 AM

inspired12 says:

man, I still think your images are some of the most humane, and touching on flickr.

...posted 6/12/2006 5:08:57 PM

No veo nada (Coke) says:

se paso....esta realmente muy buena
favorita al toke

...posted 6/12/2006 5:57:03 AM

ooneyanne says:

I was married once to such a man. Had a hard life, a rough start, a sad story but a huge heart. His love was as intense as his addictions. His highs were as powerful as his lows. Until you meet someone like this, talk to them, get to know them...you can't truly understand. And unless God opens your heart to be able to LOVE them, you will always be lacking.

...posted 6/11/2006 2:44:10 AM

d_wooden says:

I can truly believe that there was no embellishment with the story. Wow......The story tells ALMOST as much as the photo....Well done

...posted 6/10/2006 8:08:28 PM

3rd foundation says:

I think I've looked at this photo about four times today. It would be a crime to not fav it.

...posted 6/10/2006 3:38:56 AM

Gosia Margosia says:

amazing. touching. sad. beautiful.

...posted 6/9/2006 9:31:32 PM

Hudlu says:

Great work, man!!!

...posted 6/9/2006 1:38:57 AM

lo.lo says:

thanks for bringing me closer to humanity today, what you are doing here is truly the essence of art

...posted 6/8/2006 8:26:22 PM

Roochster says:

Wow...Its great how u learn so much about all the people u take pictures of.It just shows what an amazing human being u are...Great work!

...posted 6/8/2006 11:32:35 AM

3rd foundation says:

The story and photo are really amazing. Nice work.

...posted 6/8/2006 4:36:01 AM

dlemieux says:

he strangled his pets?? and killed a man? wow.....what a story. i'm freaked out.
thanks once again for your stories.

...posted 6/7/2006 6:26:06 PM

Lenba says:

what an amazing story...

...posted 6/7/2006 6:18:30 PM

sMacshot says:

to hear a man say his soul isn't worth anything is the most heartbreaking thing to imagine. That hit me so hard, and filled me with such sadness, along with his cancerous fate, that the only thing I can hope is that God is bringing him home to the 'life' he has always deserved to have, but never did.

...posted 6/7/2006 11:40:03 AM

SkyShaper says:

nice work dude , do the book!

...posted 6/7/2006 1:52:13 AM

Carrie Taylor says:

You have a gift stoneth. Magnificient work as usual.

...posted 6/7/2006 12:56:58 AM

TjF Photography says:

This is so intense! Love the stories. Love what he said about getting his pic taken...Rock-On Stoneth

...posted 6/7/2006 12:10:32 AM

photomorti says:

another great one , speakless!

...posted 6/6/2006 10:48:16 PM

rastaricanstudio says:

Great, just have no other words

...posted 6/6/2006 10:06:24 PM

AndroidParanoid says:

r'n'r

...posted 6/6/2006 8:58:36 PM

J_B - Johnny B says:

Thomas, again, you have blessed us with your wonderful eye and the opportunity to share stories about the trials and tribulations of others with us all.

...posted 6/6/2006 8:37:16 PM

Carlos Ferguson says:

man, these are just excellent portraits, keep up theh good work.

...posted 6/6/2006 8:12:50 PM

autherpen says:

Your photographic work is wonderful.
I liked very much your portraits. I wanted to know what cameras and lenses you use to photograph these persons.

Regards

...posted 6/6/2006 7:50:53 PM

Jocelyn Bassler says:

found you on explore... great portrait and a great story.

...posted 6/6/2006 7:36:49 PM

zokete says:

What a story...

...posted 6/6/2006 6:28:40 PM

ReeeeN says:

U made me cry.

...posted 6/6/2006 6:13:12 PM

veru·bouvet says:

what a nice expression!

...posted 6/6/2006 6:08:19 PM

fr1zz says:

simply great. someone else wrote that before: you have to make a book. i'll buy at least one.

...posted 6/6/2006 6:08:06 PM

verboomz says:

incredible portrait¡¡¡

...posted 6/6/2006 5:04:28 PM

LucaPicciau says:

Ah... just great!!

...posted 6/6/2006 4:54:09 PM

Letincelle says:

Something about him is very beautiful.

...posted 6/6/2006 3:56:34 PM

Caro~in~FL says:

I love that you take the time to get the story. We're all broken, these people are just more visibly so.

...posted 6/6/2006 3:31:54 PM

andrea francesco says:

amazing photo, and touching story as usual :)

...posted 6/6/2006 3:04:39 PM

Impactmedia says:

you can see the goodness in his eyes.

...posted 6/6/2006 2:24:40 PM

DaveSinclair says:

thanks for sharing the story as always ... one of the most compelling photostreams on flickr for sure.

...posted 6/6/2006 1:43:11 PM

Tous les noms sont déjà pris... pfff... says:

....
Like nnina : I feel always an optimistic side in your portrait.
That's your personnal eyes..

...posted 6/6/2006 1:23:38 PM

Mehrdad Mortezaee says:

Majestic! WOW!

...posted 6/6/2006 12:59:21 PM

wolfdaughter says:

.......
and your photo is so optymistic

...posted 6/6/2006 12:46:55 PM

Zanastardust says:

Impressive. Such a powerful image and story.

...posted 6/6/2006 12:46:14 PM

antiguan says:

harpers is right, and i want a signed copy!

...posted 6/6/2006 11:53:40 AM

nathalie booth says:

Your work is amazing. I love the stories that go with them.

...posted 6/6/2006 11:35:56 AM

iamnona says:

another amazing story to accompany another amazing photograph~ i'm very touched by his words and the thought that he acknowledges not having it as bad as someone else...can you even imagine?!~

...posted 6/6/2006 11:34:38 AM

Blobborita says:

The photo to what he said.. I am stunned... Great work!

...posted 6/6/2006 10:03:14 AM

monkeyc.net says:

Powerfull social documentary work. Excellent and moving. Superb.

...posted 6/6/2006 9:49:44 AM

teenage jesus says:

I had no words, at first. I almost could not believe such a story (or could not 'accept' it) but his face says that all!
you're so great!

...posted 6/6/2006 9:44:44 AM

metrosafari.org says:

I don´t have any words for your Art. This leaves me speechless again. GREAT WORK!

...posted 6/6/2006 9:26:10 AM

Nicola Del Mutolo says:

wow wow wow and wow!

...posted 6/6/2006 9:16:53 AM

Bumfluff says:

You're photo's and the accompanying stories always leave me very thoughtful..and some with a chill down my back like this one. I love what you're doing here.

...posted 6/6/2006 8:16:08 AM

:alain: says:

wonderful capture! very expressive

...posted 6/6/2006 7:51:48 AM

P.S.Zollo says:

wonderful portrait.
intense teeth - did you ask him to smile
for you?>
great story too, and well told.
love what he said about his soul.

...posted 6/6/2006 7:29:22 AM

A♂L♀M♀L♀ says:

Wow, it's always so interesting to hear to these peoples storys!!

...posted 6/6/2006 7:19:07 AM

BoazImages says:

Fantastic portrait!!!!

...posted 6/6/2006 6:55:22 AM

algarvenicky says:

what a fantastic portrait, its says so much well done

...posted 6/6/2006 6:33:15 AM

sakura love says:

very very nice portrait. You really capture who he is. very impressive

...posted 6/6/2006 6:18:11 AM

♥♡Queen Cleopatra♥♡ says:

so sad...♥
beautiful shot <3

...posted 6/6/2006 6:10:11 AM

dariuszka says:

fantastick portrait....the story and his smile are so real... it is hars to believe someone with such a past, life and terrible sickness can smile so widely and honestly. it should reminds us that everyday of our life is beautiful and we should enjoy it....and never forget the people like James, who can need our help.

...posted 6/6/2006 6:01:08 AM

OVNIto says:

amazing portrait!

...posted 6/6/2006 5:54:32 AM

bennyjewell says:

I'm lost for words on this one !! what an amazing story behind that tuff exterior u can see that he really does have a kind heart ...wonderful

...posted 6/6/2006 4:55:19 AM

SheStrikesBack says:

I can't decide what is more poignant, the story or the photo. A great shout of awareness was given by you to all of us who follow your stream and your work. This goes beyond photography. Excellent work! ;-)

...posted 6/6/2006 3:04:58 AM

Paradise Regained says:

when i first saw this shot a few hours ago i simply couldnt comment - just didnt have the words... now, returning, i just have to say a) it is another astonishingly acccomplished and poignant portrait b) your work as a social commentary of homelessness, in the richest country on the planet, is unsurpassed and finally, bravo, once more, for having the compassion and committment to bring these pictures and stories to us. thank you.

...posted 6/6/2006 3:04:52 AM

quebon2 says:

Saddest story I've heard in a long time. Fantastic shot to go along with it. Mucho kudos for sure.

...posted 6/6/2006 2:45:04 AM

~BranchDesign says:

Wow.

I always look forward to your photos and stories behind the faces. It is sad that all these people are here for you to take photos of, but I think it is a great tribute to each one of them. You really have a way with these individuals as people and as subjects.

Kudos

...posted 6/6/2006 2:23:26 AM

GrandmaSondra says:

His eyes look excited to tell his story. He gave up on life long ago at 11 I would say. How about a book with a photo from each state. Your work is the best I have ever seen.

...posted 6/6/2006 2:03:40 AM

humphreyphotography says:

Amazing portrait. The information you collect on all your subjects enhances these images more than I can tell you. Sincerely excellent work!

...posted 6/6/2006 1:52:45 AM

wd9hot says:

Thanks for sharing another great work, Your documentary skills and your camera skills are so synched it gives me goosebumps.

...posted 6/6/2006 1:49:57 AM

ed's point of view says:

you continue to capture powerful images of a subculture. your photos and accompanying, nonjudgmental stories journal the lives of individuals who otherwise would likely be ignored and/or forgotten.

what the stories have in common, to me, is that people have a sense of honor and dignity and a code that they live by, whatever their situation.

no matter what level of privilege we enjoy or suffer, we have to justify our existence and the way that we live.

...posted 6/6/2006 1:49:34 AM

metimbers2000 says:

Your work is captivating and relevant. Thank you for documenting this story.

...posted 6/6/2006 1:40:28 AM

!!WaynePhotoGuy says:

There is quite a story to be told in this face...
Great work.

...posted 6/6/2006 1:36:43 AM

ANOXLOU says:

good to see you up again....
awesome as usual

...posted 6/6/2006 1:28:16 AM

the mighty jimbo says:

yours are the best reasons to bookmark flickr.

...posted 6/6/2006 1:21:10 AM

original_ann says:

He has the sweetest, kindest face. Such an alive, aware soul... His story is riveting... and I'm left just wanting him to wade in bliss for the rest of his days.

...posted 6/6/2006 1:17:53 AM

redhotjezebel says:

bravo. that's all i know to say. words are failing me.

...posted 6/6/2006 1:10:30 AM

W.i.l.l.i.e. says:

thank you.

...posted 6/6/2006 12:58:59 AM

*estrella says:

this is reality, and thanks to you, and james, for sharing it.
i hope he goes smiling:)

...posted 6/6/2006 12:49:23 AM

Moxette says:

Good work, Tomas
And tender story.

...posted 6/6/2006 12:20:11 AM

kait lilley says:

wow. that story (and photo) is amazing. It's really cool that you put your soul in to taking photographs by taking the time to learn people's stories. The picture has a whole new meaning. Thanks for taking it to the next level.
123

...posted 6/6/2006 12:08:55 AM

Richard Cody says:

Painful story. Great picture as always.

...posted 6/6/2006 12:04:18 AM

kenyai says:

I am deeply touched... anything else I could say about this picture and story would sound stupid.(1-2-3)

...posted 6/6/2006 12:00:35 AM

trishlet says:

but my soul ain't worth nothing --

your work so matters. thank you again.

...posted 6/5/2006 11:56:24 PM

lolla_sig says:

amazing picture and amazing story!!!

...posted 6/5/2006 11:55:16 PM

Tutsie says:

mixed emotions on this one - i felt sympathy, shock, sad and mad. it's so awful the things that he did - whether he was on drugs or not - but still u have to feel for him - not all of us grow up with the white picket fence nor are we all so strong or resistant to some of the crap life throws at you. For him to still be good to his friends and the people around him and to have the perspective that there is always someone worse off (even though he is dying and been through hell and back i'm sure) - shows to me that he this man has a lot of soul and I think you captured it in this picture:)

...posted 6/5/2006 11:53:09 PM

moucho_negro says:

PD: I used a translator, almost English not, so if a little bad writing is excuse me:)

...posted 6/5/2006 11:46:52 PM

* Ahmad Kavousian * says:

Great portrait,

...posted 6/5/2006 11:46:45 PM

moucho_negro says:

your portraits are something incredible, the gray ones that you obtain are very very good and the histories, you do not do the photo for which if, you worry about knowing first the history of the model and that honors you.

A greeting

...posted 6/5/2006 11:45:53 PM

OzBandit says:

great expression and what a character, nice job

1-2-3

...posted 6/5/2006 11:43:09 PM

kirstin! says:

Wow. Probably the best story yet! My first thought when I saw the picture was how nice he seemed.

You're pretty much amazing.

...posted 6/5/2006 11:40:17 PM

superstar_ says:

very documentary ! Great shot

(1-2-3)

...posted 6/5/2006 11:33:27 PM

jrmyst says:

I'm glad you got a shot of him smiling to go with the violence and death in his story. It makes for a hell of a contrast. Very complex, shocking.

Do have any idea how old he is?

...posted 6/5/2006 11:17:40 PM

Harpersbizarre says:

When are you going to do a book? Everyone in America should have a copy.

...posted 6/5/2006 11:17:20 PM

carovald says:

i agree with @siebbi: I'm without words… (1-2-3)

...posted 6/5/2006 11:17:01 PM

Siebbi says:

I'm without words...

...posted 6/5/2006 11:12:48 PM

J. Chris Vaughan says:

Those eyes are frightening.

I continue to be impressed by not only your photos, but your ability and willingness to talk in-depth to these people. You're brave, and telling these stories that would otherwise be lost is courageous.

...posted 6/5/2006 11:05:34 PM

NuageDeNuit says:

Your portraits are so intense. Sad story.

...posted 6/5/2006 11:05:17 PM

Tamara Paetkau says:

..."but my soul ain't worth nothing"...breaks my heart.

...posted 6/5/2006 11:04:54 PM

damien_p58 says:

This is an amazing picture. I like the composition, the story is chilling !!

...posted 6/5/2006 11:03:45 PM