Nine Lives Mystery Magic Death And Life In New Orleans
New Orleans is a city full of mystery, magic, and history. With its unique blend of cultures and traditions, it is no surprise that the city has been the setting for many intriguing stories throughout the years. One such story is the book "Nine Lives: Mystery, Magic, Death, and Life in New Orleans" by Dan Baum. In this article, we will take a closer look at this fascinating book and the stories it tells.
The Author: Dan Baum
Dan Baum is a journalist and author who has written for many well-known publications, including The New Yorker, Rolling Stone, and The Wall Street Journal. He is the author of several books, including "Gun Guys: A Road Trip," "Smoke and Mirrors: The War on Drugs and the Politics of Failure," and "Nine Lives: Mystery, Magic, Death, and Life in New Orleans."
The Book: Nine Lives
"Nine Lives: Mystery, Magic, Death, and Life in New Orleans" is a non-fiction book that tells the stories of nine individuals from different walks of life in New Orleans. The book is set in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, and it explores the impact of the storm on the city and its people.
The book is divided into nine chapters, each one dedicated to one of the individuals whose story is being told. The characters come from all walks of life, from a streetcar driver to a Mardi Gras Indian chief. Each chapter tells the story of the person's life, including their struggles and triumphs.
The book also explores the history and culture of New Orleans, including its music, food, and traditions. Through the stories of the nine individuals, the book paints a vivid picture of life in this unique and fascinating city.
The Characters
The nine individuals whose stories are told in "Nine Lives" are a diverse group of people who represent different aspects of life in New Orleans. Here is a brief overview of each character:
- Frankie and Johnny: A couple who run a bar in the French Quarter.
- Robin: A wealthy white woman who devotes her life to helping the city's poor.
- Kevin: A streetcar driver who loves his job and takes great pride in his work.
- Timothy: A young man who becomes involved in drug dealing.
- Sandra: A nurse who cares for the elderly and terminally ill.
- Anthony: A Mardi Gras Indian chief who keeps the tradition alive.
- Doctor E: A physician who provides medical care to the city's poor.
- Tommy: A police officer who struggles with the corruption in the department.
The Themes
"Nine Lives" explores many themes, including the effects of Hurricane Katrina on the city and its people, the history and culture of New Orleans, and the struggles and triumphs of everyday life. The book also touches on issues such as poverty, race, and corruption.
One of the most prominent themes in the book is the resilience of the people of New Orleans. Despite the many challenges they face, the characters in the book show incredible strength and determination. The book also highlights the importance of community and the power of tradition in the city.
The Legacy
"Nine Lives" has become a beloved book among New Orleanians and those who love the city. It has been praised for its vivid portrayal of life in New Orleans and its celebration of the city's unique culture and traditions.
The book has also had a lasting impact on the city. It has helped to raise awareness of the many issues faced by the people of New Orleans, such as poverty and corruption. It has also inspired many people to get involved in the city's recovery efforts.
Conclusion
"Nine Lives: Mystery, Magic, Death, and Life in New Orleans" is a must-read for anyone who loves New Orleans or is interested in its history and culture. The book tells the stories of nine fascinating individuals whose lives represent different aspects of life in the city. Through their stories, the book explores the many challenges faced by the people of New Orleans and celebrates their resilience and determination.
