Summary of "Edgar Oliver: The Apron Strings of Savannah" by The Moth
Episode: Edgar Oliver: The Apron Strings of Savannah
Release Date: December 14, 2009
Host: Dan Kennedy
Storyteller: Edgar Oliver
Recorded: January 2006 at The Moth Main Stage
Theme: Last Stories About Endings
Introduction
In this poignant and captivating episode, Edgar Oliver shares a deeply personal narrative titled "The Apron Strings of Savannah," exploring his tumultuous childhood and the profound impact of his mother's controlling nature on his journey to self-discovery. Recorded in January 2006, Edgar's story delves into themes of familial bonds, artistic identity, and the desperate quest for independence.
Childhood Under Mother’s Control
Edgar begins by painting a vivid picture of his early life in Savannah, where his mother, Helen, exerted an almost omnipresent control over the household.
"[00:02:59] Edgar Oliver: Mother used to always say to us, Savannah is. Is a trap. It'll try to imprison you. Even if you manage to get away, it'll find a way to drag you back."
This metaphorical "trap" symbolized the constraints his mother placed on the family, fostering an environment of suspicion and isolation.
The household dynamics were tight-knit yet repressive, with little room for outside interaction. Edgar recounts the family's isolation:
"[00:03:31] Edgar Oliver: We're different. We're artists."
This declaration underscores the unique identity his mother instilled in him and his sister, Helen, fostering their artistic inclinations but simultaneously alienating them from their community.
Life on the Move
The family's life was characterized by constant movement, driven by his mother's paranoia and distrust of others. Edgar describes their daily migrations:
"[00:04:01] Edgar Oliver: And then there was the world. As though we were lost in it. We were like three lost children."
Their relentless driving, covering hundreds of miles each day, became a metaphor for their inability to truly settle or find peace.
The Haunted Household
Their home was a fortress of secrets and fears. Edgar vividly describes the oppressive atmosphere:
"[00:06:35] Edgar Oliver: That were locked and filled with mothers secrets."
The presence of locked chests and an aversion to darkness further emphasized the family's hidden tensions and fears.
Rituals and Superstitions
Edgar shares memories of their mother's adherence to gypsy witchcraft and various rituals that governed their daily lives. These practices heightened the sense of fear and control within the household:
"[00:07:09] Edgar Oliver: Eat the next day."
"[00:07:17] Edgar Oliver: Go on a banana split diet."
These bizarre dietary restrictions and nightly Ouija board sessions instilled a constant state of anxiety and uncertainty.
Social Isolation and Bullying
The siblings rarely interacted with other children or adults, leading to social isolation. Edgar recounts the ostracization they faced:
"[00:09:53] Edgar Oliver: You all talk funny. You're not from here, are you? Where are you from? Are you from Transylvania?"
Such taunts fueled their alienation, as classmates projected their fears of the "haunted" household onto Edgar and Helen, further deepening their isolation.
Secret Plans for Independence
As Edgar and Helen grew older, their desire for freedom intensified. They meticulously planned their escape to Paris, symbolizing their yearning to break free from their mother's oppressive grip:
"[00:15:26] Edgar Oliver: Our longing to get away from Mother began to grow very deep."
Their secret preparations, including forging financial independence and arranging travel plans, showcased their determination to carve out their own lives.
The Farewell and Transformation
The climax of Edgar's story is the emotional farewell as he leaves for Washington to attend George Washington University. This moment signifies the painful but necessary step towards independence:
"[00:19:00] Edgar Oliver: All round from under her crocheted hat. She was swinging her arms as she walked. She looked like a clown walking away."
The visual of his mother walking away, dressed eccentrically and seemingly oblivious to the gravity of the moment, encapsulates the complex emotions of leaving behind a tumultuous yet formative upbringing.
Reflections on Identity and Freedom
Edgar concludes by reflecting on how these experiences shaped his identity as an artist and his relentless pursuit of personal freedom:
"[00:12:44] Edgar Oliver: I think that we somehow thought that Mother would always be there to do the driving."
This realization underscores the lingering influence of his mother's control and the ongoing journey toward self-actualization.
Conclusion
Edgar Oliver's "The Apron Strings of Savannah" is a moving testament to the struggle between familial duty and personal freedom. Through evocative storytelling, Edgar illuminates the challenges of growing up under an overbearing parent, the pain of breaking free, and the enduring quest to define one's own identity. His narrative not only captivates listeners with its raw honesty but also resonates with anyone who has grappled with the desire to escape and the bittersweet journey toward self-discovery.
Notable Quotes
- "Mother used to always say to us, Savannah is a trap. It'll try to imprison you." — Edgar Oliver [00:02:59]
- "We're different. We're artists." — Edgar Oliver [00:03:31]
- "You all talk funny. You're not from here, are you? Where are you from? Are you from Transylvania?" — Edgar Oliver [00:09:53]
- "Our longing to get away from Mother began to grow very deep." — Edgar Oliver [00:15:26]
Final Thoughts
Edgar Oliver's story is a powerful exploration of the ties that bind and the courage required to sever them. It serves as a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of seeking one's own path amidst adversity.