Independent Lens Season 10 Episode 19 Steal a Pencil for Me

Independent Lens is a documentary series that explores contemporary social issues and challenges faced by individuals and communities around the world. The tenth season of the show features a moving and poignant episode titled "Steal a Pencil for Me," which tells the true story of two Dutch Jews who fell in love and secretly communicated through letters while they were separated during the Holocaust.

The episode is based on the memoirs of Jack Polak and his wife Ina Soep, who met in Amsterdam in 1941 and fell in love instantly. However, their romance was cut short when Jack was arrested and sent to a concentration camp. For the next several years, Jack and Ina communicated through letters, which they smuggled through their families and friends.

The letters are a testament to the indomitable spirit and courage of the human spirit during times of extreme adversity. Jack and Ina's love for each other is palpable and heartwarming throughout, despite the horrors of war that surround them. They paint a vivid picture of life in the concentration camps, where death and despair were omnipresent.

"Steal a Pencil for Me" is not just a love story, however; it is also a powerful commentary on the resilience of the human spirit in the face of oppression. Through Jack and Ina's eyes, we see the true horror of the Holocaust and the devastating impact it had on the lives of millions of people. The episode is a powerful reminder of the importance of empathy, compassion, and understanding in times of conflict and turmoil.

The documentary features interviews with Jack and Ina, as well as with their families and friends. We also hear from experts on the Holocaust, who provide historical context and perspective on the events that took place during this dark period of history. The episode is expertly crafted and beautifully shot, with a somber and haunting soundtrack that underscores the gravity of the story.

Overall, "Steal a Pencil for Me" is a moving and powerful episode of Independent Lens that will leave viewers feeling both uplifted and devastated. It is a testament to the power of love, hope, and resilience in the face of unimaginable hardship, and a reminder of the importance of remembering and honoring those who lived and died during the Holocaust.