Where We Know: New Orleans As Home

In the introduction to the second in a trilogy of anthologies centered around New Orleans, editor Rutledge writes, "New Orleans is, to say the least, a problematic home. It is also a rewarding one." This sentiment best describes the voices in this selection of essays, poems, newspaper clippings, journal entries, and quotes. They highlight the city pre- and post-Katrina, presenting a range of both historical and contemporary perspectives. A piece by Mark Folse describes the rotting of St. Francis Cabrini Catholic Church, which Folse's father helped design decades ago in the neighborhood Gentilly: "the pews piled up like bones in the oven of a raised tomb." And in "Breach of Contract," Sam Jasper talks of the items he lost to Katrina. Only some things can be replaced. "What we will grieve most is the loss of our belief in a social contract between our government and our populace." Rutledge's own "On Terence Blanchard" references the composer and jazz musician, whose life and work are inextricably tied to New Orleans. These selections combine to provide yet another remembrance of the lives changed and neighborhoods destroyed by the devastating hurricane. They also celebrate the city's unwavering spirit. (Nov.)