23rd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest The American Experience
Empty and Aching

Abandoned warehouse in Orange, Massachusetts. The scene reminds me of Simon and Garfunkel's song America which was in my head when I snapped the photo, particularly the line "I'm empty and aching and I don't know why." I think it captures the feeling of small town America and Americans who are lost in the ruins left by political decisions, economic devastation and loss of industries throughout our country contributing to the loss of families and support systems, increased use of substance abuse and the rates of depression across the country. Empty and aching and they don't know why.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 02.2025
Date Uploaded: 10.2025
Photo Location: Orange, Massachusetts, United States of America
Copyright: © Laura Mirch