On Sat, 9 Mar 2002, W. McCarthy wrote:

> Does anyone know who first opined in print that the camera is a
> "mirror with a memory"? Also, does there exist some convenient
> history of the conceit?

"We are scientists engaged in the creation of memory, but our memory will
never blur or fade."  F. W. Murnau.

Of course this was attributed to the director of _Nosferatu_ in the
infamous movie _Shadow of the Vampire_, but I believe he actually said it.
Whether he was first to it was doubtful.  Photography and memory seems a
natural equation to make.

Just my two bits...
Sarah Higley
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Sarah L. Higley                            [log in to unmask]
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Associate Professor of English                office:  (585) 275-9261
The University of Rochester                   fax:     (585) 442-5769
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Py dydwc glein / O erddygnawt vein?
"What brings a gem from a hard stone?"               Book of Taliesin
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