The Moth Podcast: Paul Bacon & Bakara La Genre Released: May 24, 2016

Presented by The Moth, a platform renowned for sharing authentic, true stories live without notes. In this episode, storytellers Paul Bacon and Bakara La Genre delve into personal experiences that capture moments of vulnerability, humor, and transformation.

1. Life After Dark: Paul Bacon

Paul Bacon, a writer and cartoonist, opens the session with a gripping tale from his days as a rookie police officer in New York City. This story, titled "Life After Dark," explores the challenges and unexpected situations faced during his early career.

The Setup: Paul recounts being assigned a double shift—working from 4 PM to midnight, followed by midnight to 8 AM—something typical for newcomers in the force. His role involved guarding police headquarters at One Police Plaza, a responsibility he describes as monotonous yet demanding due to exhaustion.

The Predicament: At [02:30], Paul explains, "I was dead tired," leading him to attempt sneaking a quick nap in his patrol car during his designated 3 AM meal break. Believing the backseat was a safe haven, he lays down, crossing his legs to lie on his side, hoping to avoid detection.

However, his attempt at rest turns into a nightmare when he wakes up to find himself locked inside the patrol car—a realization that dawns on him during a dream-like state. [07:15] Paul laments, "I knew I've already got these two strikes against me," referring to prior minor violations that could jeopardize his standing.

The 911 Call: Desperate, Paul decides to call 911, navigating the awkwardness of reporting his own predicament. At [10:10], he nervously states, "I need a unit to come to my location," only to face skepticism from the operator, who misinterprets his distress as a joke. The situation escalates when the call is mistakenly labeled as a 1013—Police Code for officer down—causing a flurry of emergency units to converge unnecessarily.

Paul shares his anxiety: "I have a vision of somebody getting killed or hurt," highlighting the fear and embarrassment of being mishandled by the very system he's a part of.

The Rescue and Aftermath: Just as panic sets in, Paul's partner becomes aware of his absence and swiftly rescues him, bringing an end to the ordeal. [25:45] Relieved, Paul is informed that his actions won't lead to disciplinary measures, thanks to his partner's intervention and the supportive sergeant who dismisses the incident lightheartedly: "You're a legend."

Key Insights:

• Vulnerability in Authority: Paul's story underscores the human side of law enforcement officers, revealing their struggles and the pressures they face.
• Systemic Challenges: The miscommunication during the 911 call illustrates potential flaws within emergency response protocols.
• Supportive Camaraderie: The unwavering support from his partner and sergeant highlights the importance of solidarity in high-stress environments.

Notable Quote:

"I knew I've already got these two strikes against me. So the third strike, they're getting locked in the back of the car. It's gonna be, forget about it." – Paul Bacon [07:00]

2. Call of the Wild: Bakara La Genre

Following Paul Bacon's intense narrative, Bakara La Genre, an artist, writer, and stage performer, transports listeners to the exhilarating and perilous adventures of her time in Africa. Her story, aptly named "Call of the Wild," delves into personal growth, confronting fears, and the raw beauty of the natural world.

Early Reluctance: Bakara begins by contrasting her disdain for traditional wild experiences with her mother's passion for hunting: "I never was much for the wild... I hastily became a Buddhist, a vegetarian, and an animal defender," she shares. Despite her upbringing surrounded by trophies and the thrill of hunting, Bakara pursued a different path, aspiring to be a writer.

Encounter with Jim: Her perspective shifts when she meets Jim, a charismatic and animal-loving safari guide. Their relationship blossoms, leading her to join Jim on a safari trip to Rhodesia. [15:45] Despite her fears, Bakara equips herself with safari gear, ready to embrace the unknown: "I was all set to go."

Challenges in the Wild: Once in the African wilderness, Bakara faces multiple challenges:

• Deserted Landscapes: Navigating the vast, empty terrain heightens her sense of isolation.
• Wildlife Encounters: From witnessing elephants near her tent to a nerve-wracking encounter with a lion, Bakara's experiences are both awe-inspiring and terrifying.

At [22:30], she recounts a heart-stopping moment:

"I took my flashlight and I crept out of the tent... And I saw this elephant silhouetted against the starlit sky."

The Lion Incident: Perhaps the most intense part of her tale involves a lion's attack on a tethered goat, which unexpectedly threatens her safety:

"I shut my eyes because I didn't want to see. But then I opened my eyes because what if he jumped on me?" [28:10]

Bakara's internal conflict—balancing fear with the need to remain still—culminates in a moment of mutual recognition between her and the lion, symbolizing a profound connection with nature.

Transformation and Resolve: Surviving these encounters, Bakara emerges with a newfound bravery and determination:

"I knew that something had happened to me, that I was brave to be sitting there, that I was different." [30:20]

She declines Jim's invitation to continue their adventures in the Congo, choosing instead to pursue her passion for writing and storytelling based on her transformative experiences.

Key Insights:

• Confronting Fears: Bakara's journey illustrates how facing one's deepest fears can lead to personal growth and resilience.
• Nature's Duality: The story captures the beauty and danger inherent in the wild, emphasizing respect and understanding over conquest.
• Self-Discovery: Through her adventures, Bakara discovers her strength and solidifies her commitment to her true calling as a writer.

Notable Quote:

"I knew that something had happened to me, that I was brave to be sitting there, that I was different." – Bakara La Genre [30:15]

Conclusion

This episode of The Moth masterfully intertwines two distinct yet thematically connected stories of personal trials and triumphs. Paul Bacon's experience as a rookie cop highlights the vulnerabilities and camaraderie within high-pressure roles, while Bakara La Genre's African safari journey underscores the transformative power of facing fears and embracing one's true path. Together, these narratives celebrate human resilience, the quest for self-understanding, and the profound moments that define our lives.

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