What is now known as The Lennon Wall, was once a regular wall located in a park, owned by the Knights of the Maltese Cross. Through the Communist regime "alcoholics, the mentally deranged, sociopaths, and agents of Western capitalism" (as they were called in the news) would write their grievances on this wall, much to the irritation of the police and governmental leaders. There was once a large portrait of John Lennon there, which inspired their movement to ironically be called "Lennonism." It would be patrolled by police and constantly painted over, but the next day it would again be filled with words and pictures of peace - often Beatles lyrics.
The portrait of Lennon has long since been covered by years of graffiti, but many people still flock here to write messages of love and peace (in all different languages). It is refreshing to see that there are hardly ever rude comments, and never anything violent written on the wall. If there is, it is promptly covered up by the next "artist" with a heart, peace sign, or kind word. It can look different on any given day, which makes it exciting to go back and look at what has changed.

No comments:
Post a Comment