Dancing in the Dark

Set against the backdrop of the 1930s, this work delves into the duality of anxiety and optimism experienced by Americans during the Great Depression. Morris Dickstein presents a rich tapestry of cultural elements, from Dust Bowl migrations to the vibrant arts scene, highlighting how these creative expressions provided hope and uplifted national morale. Challenging the notion that Depression-era culture was solely escapist, this analysis reveals the dynamic energy that defined a remarkable artistic period in American history.