Aaron Mahnke's Cabinet of Curiosities: "Destined for the Deep"
Released on November 26, 2024 by iHeartPodcasts and Grim & Mild
Introduction
In the episode titled "Destined for the Deep," Aaron Mahnke delves into two compelling historical narratives that intertwine destiny, survival, and the inexorable pull of the sea. Each story unearths the extraordinary lives of individuals whose encounters with maritime tragedy and societal upheaval shaped their legacies in profound ways.
Story 1: Ramon Artavetia and the SS America
Timestamp: 00:36 - 09:28
Early Life and Maritime Heritage
Ramon Artavetia was born in 1840 in a coastal city of Uruguay, descending from a lineage of seasoned seafarers. His family's bond with the ocean was symbolized by a cherished heirloom—a wooden oar inscribed by his grandfather with the poignant message: “You will never be hungry. Your ancestors have always survived thanks to the sea. This is your destiny. Follow it” (00:36).
Tragedy Strikes the SS America
At 31, Ramon's life took a harrowing turn aboard the SS America, a grand paddle steamer. On Christmas Eve, an unforeseen explosion shattered the festive calm, leaving the ship engulfed in flames due to a burst steam pipe caused by the crew’s excessive speed during a race (02:15). Amid the ensuing chaos, Ramon faced a life-or-death decision. Recalling his grandfather's words, he chose to leap into the icy waters rather than cling to a burning vessel. His bravery secured his survival; out of 164 passengers, only 65 endured the ordeal, many with severe burns. However, the physical scars were merely the surface of Ramon's suffering. The traumatic experience inflicted deep psychological wounds, manifesting as relentless nightmares and anxiety that plagued him for years (05:40).
Battle with PTSD and Return to Land
Haunted by his near-death experience, Ramon retreated from the sea, relocating to a landlocked farm in Argentina. Despite his efforts to lead a tranquil life, the seafarer within him yearned for the ocean, culminating in a bold decision at age 71 to undertake a transatlantic voyage to Europe. This journey marked his confrontation with lingering fears, as he spent much of the trip prepared for potential disaster (07:05).
Tragic Fate on the Titanic
Ramon’s resilience bore fruit when he arrived safely in Europe, prompting him to embark on another crossing back to America. This time, however, fate was unkind. Just four days into the voyage aboard the RMS Titanic—a modern and massive vessel—his ship collided with an iceberg, leading to its tragic sinking. Unlike his survival from the SS America disaster, Ramon did not survive the Titanic's demise on April 15, 1912, alongside 1,500 other victims. His life story poignantly illustrates the inescapable destiny his family forewarned, as he ultimately succumbed to the very element he was destined to embrace (08:50).
Notable Quote
Ramon's resolve is encapsulated in his adherence to his grandfather's prophecy: “You will never be hungry. Your ancestors have always survived thanks to the sea. This is your destiny. Follow it” (00:36).
Story 2: Phyllis Wheatley and Her Literary Voyage
Timestamp: 09:28 - 19:00
From Enslavement to Literary Accomplishment
Phyllis Wheatley's journey began in West Africa, where she was kidnapped at the tender age of 7 or 8 in 1761. Transported under brutal conditions alongside 94 other Africans, the transatlantic voyage to Boston was marked by immense suffering, with nearly a quarter of the captives perishing before arrival (10:45). Upon reaching Boston, Phyllis was sold to a merchant who recognized her intellectual potential, providing her with an education uncommon for enslaved individuals of her time.
Academic Pursuits and Literary Talent
Under the patronage of her enslaver’s family, Phyllis mastered English and embarked on an ambitious educational path, studying Latin, Greek, history, theology, and poetry. By age 14, she had published her first poem, "To the University of Cambridge in New England," showcasing her profound talent and intellectual prowess (13:20). Her writings frequently addressed contemporary issues, including the fervent revolutionary spirit of Boston, as evidenced in her poignant poem honoring the Boston Massacre.
Struggles Against Racial Prejudice
Despite her acclaim among New Englanders, Phyllis faced systemic racism that barred her work from being published in America. Her relentless pursuit of literary expression culminated in her journey to London in 1773, where English publishers embraced her work. With the support of a sympathetic countess, Phyllis successfully published her poetry, marking a significant achievement for an enslaved black woman of her era (16:55).
The Perilous Delivery of Her Manuscripts
The climax of Phyllis’s story centers on the perilous journey of her published books back to Boston. Scheduled to arrive on the Dartmouth on November 28, 1773, amidst rising tensions leading to the infamous Boston Tea Party, Phyllis feared that political unrest might jeopardize her literary legacy. In a dramatic turn of events, the Sons of Liberty targeted the Dartmouth, intending to intercept goods from England. However, Phyllis managed to safeguard her manuscripts, preserving three years of her dedicated work (19:00).
Legacy and Impact
Phyllis Wheatley's resilience and artistic genius not only broke barriers for African Americans in literature but also provided a powerful voice against the injustices of slavery. Her ability to navigate and overcome the oppressive structures of her time remains an inspiring testament to her enduring legacy (18:50).
Notable Quote
Reflecting on her own circumstances and the broader struggle for freedom, Phyllis poignantly observes: “Here in Boston, colonists were calling for freedom from an oppressive master in England, while condoning the slavery of Phyllis and her countrymen” (17:05).
Conclusion
"Destined for the Deep" masterfully weaves together the lives of Ramon Artavetia and Phyllis Wheatley, illustrating how destiny, whether embraced or imposed, can lead to both triumph and tragedy. Through tales of survival against the odds and the relentless pursuit of one’s passions amidst societal constraints, the episode underscores the profound impacts of individual choices and historical forces. Aaron Mahnke’s storytelling not only entertains but also enlightens listeners, inviting them to ponder the intricate interplay between fate and self-determination.
Final Thoughts
This episode of Aaron Mahnke's Cabinet of Curiosities offers a rich exploration of human resilience and the often unpredictable currents of destiny. By delving into Ramon’s maritime struggles and Phyllis’s literary battles, Mahnke invites listeners to appreciate the depths of historical curiosity and the enduring spirit of those who navigate its uncharted waters. For more intriguing stories, subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or visit curiositiespodcast.com.