August 31, 2005
New Orleans totally evacuated amid threats of disease from the toxic raw sewage in the hundred degree tropical heat. Dead bodies float in the water (in and out of coffins) widespread looting, shootings, a descent into anarchy. Wynton Marsalis on Nightline talking about the history and cultural importance of New Orleans, especially its influence on American music. Jazz music was the “sound of democracy” of everyone swinging, drums and bass grooving together. (I think this is an excellent metaphor). The future of New Orleans can be like the future of Chicago after the fire, and it can revive itself quite quickly, even though the city is abandoned. It is still a place, and will be re-placed. but it will be the new New Orleans, just as good as the old, or even better, as in Chicago. I look at the pictures of the inundated city, and most of it will have to be razed. This will take years to redevelop. How can the U.S. do it the right ...
