“Out of a mountain of despair, a stone of hope.”
MLK Memorial
The MLK Memorial is by far the more engaging and dynamic design of the monuments on The National Mall. Rather than enshrine or entomb the leader, the entire memorial site is a manifestation of Martin Luther King Jr’s words, beliefs, and actions.
It’s heavy handed symbolism can be forgiven for the raw and frank statement it makes. MLK was not a perfect man. None are. But he was an inspiration and catalyst for change that worked to heal a nation.
And that is represented by the unfinished carving of a man steadfast in his beliefs; just as all great men pass away unfinished in their pursuit to be better and do better.
It is inspiring.