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The Wire Season 1
David Simon
Wow. What a show! This was my second time watching it;
however, my initial playthrough was so long ago it
doesn't bear significant influence on my thoughts. One
way I viewed the show was as a analysis of
organizational structures. The two dominant
organizations, the Baltimore Police Department and the
Barksdale Organization employ wildly different methods
towards their accomplishment of opposing goals. BPD
employs a (semi)-horizontal power structure
reminiscent of America's ole faithful 'checks &
balances'. While this encourages cooperation, it's
shown time and again to hamper real policework.
Especially as a focus on career development prevents
police from doing good ole fashioned policework. On
the other hand, Barksdale's operation utilizes a
vertical power structure managed through fear and
violence. While effective, it's ultimately a deck of
cards. As the story progresses, Barksdale's crew
relies on increasingly violent acts just to stay
viable. Despite their precarious position, it feels
like Simon ultimately lands on the side of Barksdale.
The ending sequence intentionally hearkens to the
beginning of the show, I think with the message that
despite Baltimore's best efforts their work is
ultimately impotent in the face of the drug trade. I
am reminded of the saying "time is a circle."