Aug 10, 2015
To be a kultur-tuer, a kind of Yiddish cultural activist, you need a certain look. And this look is something that takes cultivation and hard work. We’ve assembled here some of the most exquisitely dressed men of Yiddish letters. A consideration of the women, often snubbed in such lists, is forthcoming!
1. Moyshe Nadir
The critic and satirist (right) goes for a stroll in the Laurentian Mountains with publisher and bookstore owner Harry Hershman, in 1936. Tweed never goes out of style.
Sholem Aleichem, looking particularly scholarly.
The ascot is preferred by the “Jewish Mark Twain.”
Especially as a way to ward off the dreaded TB.
When heading into the great wide web, Sholem Aleichem wears his furs.
But when in doubt, Sholem Aleichem, the stylish utilitarian, will don his furs.
The zeyde of Yiddish Literature also loves the ascot.
The young Bergelson, keeping it casual.
Extra points to the playwright Herschbein (left) for his artistic hair, upstaging his friend Zalman Shneur. What a dandy!
There is something about Yiddish writers and ascots I suppose. It seems to make this poet and playwright smirk. And look at that tie pin!
The famed poet nails what some have called the “rumpled aesthetic.” See this image of Gary Oldman for reference:
