Meaning: The quote you provided appears to be a reference to a specific event or experience told from the perspective of an unnamed individual. The mention of "Mr. Stryker" and "Harvest in Ohio" suggests that the speaker was involved in some kind of work or project related to agriculture or rural labor during the year 1938.

Ben Shahn was a prominent American artist known for his work in social realism and his depictions of the struggles and experiences of working-class individuals during the Great Depression. Shahn's art often focused on themes of social justice, labor rights, and the human impact of economic hardship.

The quote seems to capture a sense of personal sacrifice and dedication to a cause or project, as the speaker mentions taking a job with Mr. Stryker at a reduced salary in order to participate in the "Harvest in Ohio." This suggests a willingness to make financial sacrifices in order to be involved in this particular endeavor, indicating a strong commitment to the work being done.

The mention of "Harvest in Ohio" may refer to a specific historical event or initiative related to agricultural labor in the state of Ohio during the 1930s. The Great Depression had a profound impact on agricultural communities, and initiatives such as government-sponsored harvest programs aimed to address labor shortages and support farmers during this challenging period.

As for Mr. Stryker, this individual is likely a specific figure relevant to the context of the quote. Without further information, it is difficult to determine the exact identity or significance of Mr. Stryker in relation to the speaker and the "Harvest in Ohio" mentioned.

In the broader context of Ben Shahn's work, the quote may reflect the artist's commitment to portraying the experiences of ordinary individuals and their struggles during a tumultuous period in American history. Shahn's art often sought to give voice to the marginalized and to shed light on the human stories behind larger social and economic forces.

Overall, the quote offers a glimpse into a personal experience related to labor and dedication to a cause, while also hinting at broader historical and social themes relevant to the era in which it is set. It provides an opportunity to explore the connections between individual experiences, larger social movements, and the artistic expressions that seek to capture and convey these stories.