London is a contradicting city in all means. It has the styles of an ultra-modern town while somehow keeping its ancient roots. On one side of the street, you see skyscrapers surging up the sky. Looking at the other hand though teleports you back to the nineteenth century. This blend of future and classic is like a nicely prepared cocktail, attracting more than thirty million tourists on average each year.
Behind this extravagant lifestyle sits people who are suffering from deep poverty. London is not a perfect city, and that reflects upon the conditions of many people. Homeless ones, alcoholics, people taking low wage jobs, those are just a few of the symptoms. But, different from the United States, there is no absolute division line between areas of poor and rich. Poverty in London appears as you ambulate down the streets. Sometimes, they nestle down on districts that are right next to the City of London. Even in the wealthiest part of the town, enter a tube station, and there is usually a homeless person waiting for generosity. Though there are no signs of separation, there is apparent isolation between the high and low of London. The lavish displays their distinctness by ignoring the poor ones who might be right across the street. During the stay, I’ve noticed countless parties occurring behind iron bars and confined spaces. Even the poor ones would avoid the rich fellows. They turn to seek attention from us, the commoners as if they know there is a clear boundary for them not to step in.
Therefore, it is sad to notice that most of the people display ignorance towards these social issues. We, the commoners, choose to separate ourselves from mingling in these “problems.” This photo essay, therefore, was created in hopes to draw attention to rising issues of inequality. By displaying a variety of photos related to this closely connected yet separated society, it aims to generate awareness towards the High and Low of London.
A smiling laundry worker. This tough job requires the exchange of cleaned and dirty laundries inside each hotel. Each pack weighs at least 35 pounds. He is in charge of 8 stops with a least three containers (each includes dozens of packages) for each hotel. The photo depicts him at his seventh stop: Fraser Suite, located in South Kensington. July/13/2019.
"Private Event" behind iron bars. This building was once the National History Museum, which is towards the public, but now it requires individual identification. The guard refuses to acknowledge anyone of what is happening inside. July/13/2019.
A man asking around for cash. He claims that he "lost his wallet" in the Gloucester Road Station, and wish to have 16 pounds to buy himself a meal and find a place to stay. July/13/2019.
Two men and a dog, taking a nap at an alley beside Wyndham's theatre. Constructed in 1899, Wyndham's theatre is one of the most prestige theatres in Covent garden. The streets here are usually crowded with tourist, but none choose to cross this alley. July/19/2019.
An older man is sleeping on the streets with his barefoot. Piccadilly Circus, one of the most vibrant places in London, seemed no stranger to this situation. July/21/2019.
Drunken man trying to open the doors of a leaving subway, leading to a massive argument. This action scene happened in Miles End, a notorious part of London. July/15/2019.
Tourists and resident, clearly separated. The group has a tour around White Chapel, one of the poorest district of London, now famous for its bars, restaurants, and constant touring. The people here, though, remain impoverished. July/17/2019.
Once Army Veteran, now a homeless person, with his dog, sitting beside Tower Hill Station. The picture was taken after a drizzle at one of the wealthiest districts of London. July/19/2019.
Groups of people in front of a bar. White Chapel, one of the poorest district of London, borders with the City of London, one of the wealthiest zone of London. The borderline could be seen from the tall modern building behind. July/19/2019.
A homeless person is having a chat with one returning from work. The photo was taken in White Chapel right next to the commercial street. July/19/2019.
Two guests coming back from a late-night party. They came off from their private Mercedes and entered the mandarin oriental hotel at Knights Bridge, one of the top ten hotels in London. Later, the intention of this photo was questioned. July/20/2019.
A beggars bed with accessories. This bed lies in a tunnel that leads to Hyde Park Corner station, right next to Knights Bridge and Buckingham Palace, two of the most prosperous and prestigious place in London. On top of the money box wrote a small note: "Please Help? Thank you very much. Have a nice day." However, there is nothing inside the box. July/20/2019.
Composed By Ue Zhou