“A Pledge and a Prayer – and on Earth Peace, Good Will Toward Men” is a poster by artist Charles Alston, created within the Social Realism art movement. The artwork features elements commonly associated with the genre, emphasizing social and political themes through its visual narrative.
The artwork depicts a soldier standing solemnly, holding a rifle with both hands, as he gazes upward towards a radiant star in the sky. The soldier is rendered in detailed, monochromatic tones, encapsulating the earnest appeal conveyed by his stance. The background gradually transitions from dark to light, symbolizing hope and peace as referenced in the title. Above the soldier’s head, the words “and on Earth Peace, Good Will Toward Men” arch, echoing the message of universal harmony and brotherhood. The overall composition of the artwork evokes a powerful sense of reflection and aspiration for a world rooted in peace and goodwill.
