In the wake of Hurricane Maria, Puerto Rico found itself in the throes of devastation and despair. Yet amidst the rubble and the chaos, emerged a beacon of resilience and storytelling in the form of Catatonia, a podcast created by Puerto Rican writer and artist, Huascar Robles. Premiered on New Year’s Day, Catatonia promises a poignant journey through Puerto Rican culture, trauma, and the process of unscrewing oneself out of post-hurricane shock.
Podcast Review : Catatonia
In the aftermath of Hurricane Maria, Huascar Robles presents Catatonia, a podcast that serves as a poignant narrative of Puerto Rico’s resilience amidst adversity. Through a series of compelling episodes, Robles weaves together personal anecdotes, candid conversations, and astute observations, offering listeners a nuanced understanding of the island’s post-disaster reality. From the harrowing exodus of Robles’ mother to the broader socio-political landscape, Catatonia navigates the complexities of trauma and recovery with grace and empathy. With each episode, Robles invites listeners on a journey of collective healing, reminding us of the enduring spirit of Puerto Rico and its people in the face of uncertainty.
The Context
The genesis of Catatonia stems from the profound personal experience of its creator, Huascar Robles. As Hurricane Maria ravaged Puerto Rico on September 20, the island’s agony reverberated across the globe. Robles, separated by distance, witnessed the destruction unfold, feeling the pangs of helplessness as his homeland was battered by the relentless storm. Two weeks later, his mother joined the exodus of thousands fleeing the desolation, marking the beginning of a narrative that would shape the essence of Catatonia.
Episode Breakdown
Episode One: A Mother’s Exodus
The inaugural episode of Catatonia delves deep into Robles’ personal narrative, offering a poignant account of his mother’s departure from Puerto Rico in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria. With a backdrop of Harlem’s bustling streets, Robles narrates his mother’s journey with a delicate balance of sobriety and vulnerability, encapsulating the anguish and resilience of those forced to flee their homes.
In the subsequent episode, Robles shifts his focus to the broader landscape of post-hurricane Puerto Rico, intertwining personal anecdotes with poignant reflections on the island’s socio-political climate. From public relations debacles to the looming mental health crisis, Robles paints a multifaceted portrait of a community grappling with the aftermath of a natural disaster.
Episode Three and Four: Evolving Narratives
As Catatonia progresses, Robles expands the podcast’s scope, incorporating candid conversations with external voices to enrich the narrative tapestry. Episode three and four feature excerpts of a compelling dialogue with photographer Joseph Rodriguez, offering unique insights into Puerto Rico’s post-disaster reality. With smoother transitions and a pensive musical backdrop, Catatonia evolves into a nuanced exploration of trauma and resilience.
Episode Five: Embracing Diversity
In a bold departure from its previous episodes, Catatonia ventures into uncharted territory by incorporating interviews conducted in Spanish. Robles’ attendance at the New Art Dealers Alliance (NADA) Art Fair in New York City provides a platform for dialogue with members of Brigada Puerta de Tierra, shedding light on grassroots initiatives aimed at revitalizing Puerto Rico’s cultural landscape.
The Essence of Catatonia
At its core, Catatonia emerges as more than just a podcast; it’s a testament to the power of storytelling in the face of adversity. Through Robles’ deft narration and astute curation, listeners are invited to embark on a collective journey of understanding and healing. With each episode, Catatonia navigates the delicate balance between catharsis and exposition, offering a glimmer of hope amidst the uncertainty that lies ahead.
Conclusion
As Catatonia continues to evolve, it remains a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of storytelling. With Huascar Robles at the helm, Catatonia transcends the confines of a mere podcast, emerging as a beacon of hope and understanding in a world plagued by uncertainty. In the words of Robles himself, Catatonia is a journey without end—a testament to the enduring spirit of Puerto Rico and its people.
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FAQs
1. What is Catatonia?
Catatonia is a cultural podcast created by Puerto Rican writer and artist Huascar Robles. It explores the nuances of Puerto Rican culture, trauma, and the process of healing in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria.
2. What topics does Catatonia cover?
Catatonia delves into a wide range of topics, including personal narratives of survival and resilience, socio-political issues in Puerto Rico post-Hurricane Maria, cultural traditions, mental health challenges, and grassroots initiatives aimed at rebuilding communities.
3. Who is Huascar Robles?
Huascar Robles is a Puerto Rican writer and artist who serves as the creator and host of Catatonia. With a deep personal connection to Puerto Rico and a passion for storytelling, Robles brings a unique perspective to the podcast.
4. What makes Catatonia unique?
Catatonia stands out for its intimate storytelling approach, blending personal narratives with broader socio-cultural commentary. Through candid conversations and thoughtful curation, Catatonia offers listeners a nuanced understanding of the complexities of post-disaster recovery.
5. How often are new episodes released?
New episodes of Catatonia are released regularly, with the frequency varying depending on the production schedule. Listeners can stay updated on the latest releases by subscribing to the podcast or signing up for the weekly newsletter.
6. Are episodes available in multiple languages?
Yes, Catatonia features episodes in both English and Spanish, reflecting the bilingual nature of Puerto Rican culture. This inclusivity allows a wider audience to engage with the podcast and its themes of resilience and healing.
7. Can I contribute to Catatonia?
While Catatonia is primarily curated by Huascar Robles, the podcast welcomes contributions and feedback from listeners. If you have a story to share or would like to suggest a topic for future episodes, you can reach out to the Catatonia team through their website or social media channels.
About Author
The Podcasting Research Team is a dynamic and passionate group of young researchers who are dedicated to exploring the world of podcasting. Whether you’re a podcast creator, a marketer, or simply a curious listener, the work of The Podcasting Research Team can provide valuable insights into the trends and best practices in the podcasting world.
