by Conor Friedersdorf
A reader writes:
An "aspirational identification" would probably best describe the impact Cool Hand Luke had on me - specifically the scene where Luke and the chain gang are tarring the road. I never had visions of grandeur for myself. I always saw myself as just a regular guy. However, when I watched this scene, it capture so much of who I am and what I would like to be. The later is easy, just look at Newman, the whit, charm and good looks. The who I am didn't really come out until later in life, but it was always there. I like to challenge the establishment, nothing bold or brash, I'm no revolutionary. I just like sticking it to the man from time to time. It never makes a difference in the larger scheme of things, but it does make me smile.
That is one of my favorite all-time scenes.