Summary of "A Tribute To Bokara" Episode of The Moth Podcast
Introduction
In the February 23, 2018 episode of The Moth podcast titled "A Tribute To Bokara," host Kathryn Burns pays heartfelt homage to Bokhara Legendre, a beloved storyteller and longtime member of The Moth community who recently passed away. This episode features recordings of Bokhara’s captivating stories, highlighting her vibrant personality, adventurous spirit, and the profound impact she had on both her audience and peers.
Kathryn Burns' Tribute to Bokara
Kathryn Burns, The Moth's artistic director, begins the episode by sharing her personal connection to Bokhara. She recounts attending one of Bokhara’s early storytelling sessions in November 2001 at the American Museum of Natural History in New York. Kathryn describes Bokhara as "a slim, older woman with a sparkling and exuberant personality" who consistently mesmerized audiences with her tales. Kathryn announces that the episode serves as a tribute to Bokhara, featuring two of her most memorable stories.
Bokhara Legendre's Stories
1. Inheriting Her Mother's Legacy (00:02:08 - 08:19)
In her first story, Bokhara reflects on her mother's life as a big game hunter and the complex legacy she inherited. Bokhara narrates how her mother organized a hunting trip to Abyssinia (now Ethiopia) with two brothers, Sidney and Maurice Legendre, ultimately choosing Sidney as her husband. She shares vivid anecdotes about their adventures, including interactions with local authorities and the cultural misunderstandings they faced.
Bokhara inherits her mother's South Carolina plantation, adorned with numerous animal trophies collected over decades. Determined to transform the plantation's "karma," Bokhara attempts to purge the collection by reaching out to various institutions and private collectors. Despite her efforts, logistical challenges and the symbolic power of the animal trophies tied to her mother's legacy prove insurmountable. Bokhara poignantly states, “I can't really step into mummy's shoes because these animals represent her power” (07:45). Faced with frustration, she ultimately decides to pass the animal heads to her nephew, symbolizing her inability to fully break free from her mother's influence.
2. Transformation and Realization (08:19 - 15:49)
Continuing her narrative, Bokhara describes her visit to the Natural History Museum, where her mother's collection is prominently displayed. She shares her emotional journey of attempting to meld her New Age beliefs with the plantation's existing legacy. Despite encountering supernatural challenges—such as unexplained fires and apparitions—Bokhara remains steadfast in her mission to foster peace and transformation.
Bokhara recounts organizing a Beltane festival aimed at cleansing the plantation's energy through drumming, singing, and dancing around a bonfire. However, her manager vetoes the plan, fearing the formaldehyde in the animal trophies could pose health hazards. Ultimately, Bokhara relinquishes the animal heads to her nephew, expressing a sense of liberation: “And I realized I'm free” (15:00).
Obituary and Personal Memories (15:49 - 16:56)
Kathryn proceeds to share Bokhara’s New York Times obituary, highlighting her vibrant life as an artist and storyteller. She fondly recalls Bokhara’s childhood at Medway plantation, where Bokhara would entertain her schoolmates with fantastical tales of being a Russian princess. Kathryn also mentions Bokhara’s artistic achievements, including her paintings exhibited in New York and California, and her memoir titled Not What I Expected. Emphasizing Bokhara's multifaceted talents, Kathryn states, “Bo was an accomplished artist whose paintings of wolves and fanciful dream images were exhibited in galleries” (15:55).
Bokhara Legendre's "Big Night" Story (16:56 - 30:47)
In her second story, titled "Big Night," Bokhara recounts her unexpected adventure during the coronation of Nepal’s king. Invited as a guest of honor, Bokhara’s journey begins with excitement but quickly turns chaotic. Arriving in Kathmandu, she faces cultural mishaps, including her high heels getting stuck in a cow patty and being inadvertently excluded from the actual coronation ceremony.
Bokhara details her subsequent experiences at a lavish party with dignitaries like Imelda Marcos and interactions with Sir Edmund Hillary. Through these encounters, she undergoes a profound personal transformation. Hiking the Himalayas with a friend, she engages in spiritual practices at a Tibetan monastery, where a dream about reincarnation leads her to a deeper understanding of her life’s purpose. Bokhara reflects, “You can escape to a party and make a gay time to try and escape from the inevitable pain of life, or you can decide to go and sit quietly with a wise man and feel that your life is really in tune” (29:30).
Unfinished Story and Final Tribute (30:47 - End)
Kathryn shares that she and Bokhara were collaborating on a new Moth story before Bokhara’s passing. The intended narrative involved Bokhara seeking guidance from the Dalai Lama about her life's purpose. Despite obstacles, including her friends overshadowing her moment with the Dalai Lama, Bokhara ultimately realizes her role as a connector of people. This unfinished story encapsulates Bokhara's enduring spirit and her commitment to fostering connections among individuals.
Kathryn concludes the tribute by expressing deep affection and admiration for Bokhara, stating, “Thanks for listening to this tribute to Bokara, who was a dear friend and mentor. Bo, we love and miss” (30:47).
Conclusion
"A Tribute To Bokara" serves as a poignant celebration of Bokhara Legendre’s life, showcasing her remarkable storytelling ability, adventurous spirit, and the lasting legacy she leaves behind. Through her stories, Bokhara imparts lessons on legacy, transformation, and the search for personal meaning. Kathryn Burns' heartfelt homage underscores the profound impact Bokhara had on The Moth community and beyond, ensuring that her vibrant stories and indomitable spirit continue to inspire listeners.