Book excerpt: A surprising combination of two extensive bodies of work from the esteemed photographer Mermelstein, women twirling their hair and people on the run through the streets of New York. The juxtaposition creates a fresh observation of oberving and understanding human behaivour and the everyday environment. Mermelstein expertly avoids the played out perspective of the ironic bystander, transcending that role through a narrow and poignant focus, creating real insight and perspective on the human condition.