life in the hard lane

When I encounter an image like this I often am curious about the relationship of the photographer and subject. Perhaps it involved only a short conversation, but it is no doubt different than, say, a chat during the making of a commercial portrait or that of a friend. The gentleman seems to have an empathy with you or perhaps it is simply his pleasure that someone noticed him. The B&W rendition is perfect and the composition enhances the difficult equilibrium in his life, with the presence of the slight diagonals, objects and textures, and a balance created with the upper rightmost deep shadows, supporting the communication. Excellent. Thanks for showing.

Agree, I feel an uncomfortable energy from it in the light and darks. Good street.

Expressive street portrait!