The Moth Podcast: Piper Kerman – "Wall of Sound"
Release Date: June 24, 2013
Introduction
In the episode titled "Wall of Sound," Piper Kerman shares her harrowing yet transformative experience during her year in a women's federal prison in Danbury, Connecticut. Known for her bestselling memoir Orange is the New Black, Kerman delivers a poignant narrative that delves deep into the challenges of prison life, the significance of human connection, and the yearning for normalcy amidst confinement.
Journey to Incarceration
Piper Kerman opens her story by recounting the circumstances that led to her imprisonment. In 2004, she found herself behind bars due to a drug-related offense committed in 1993. Fresh out of Smith College, Kerman had fallen into a relationship with an older woman involved in narcotics trafficking. Tasked with transporting a substantial amount of money from Chicago to Brussels, Kerman's actions, though unintentional in their gravity, resulted in over a decade of incarceration.
“I was transformed, head spinningly, quickly, into prisoner number 111-877-4424.” [05:15]
This transformation marked the beginning of her arduous journey, stripping her of individuality and reducing her to a mere number within the vast system.
Life Inside the Walls
Upon her arrival at the federal correctional institution, Kerman describes the stark and intimidating environment. The facility, surrounded by razor wire and guarded by stern personnel, was a physical manifestation of the isolation and control exerted over inmates.
“That place and the people who ran it never let you forget that to them, you were nothing but that number.” [06:40]
Kerman details the initial dehumanization process, involving invasive strip searches and the relentless assignment of numbers, which serve to erase personal identities and enforce a sense of anonymity among the prisoners.
The Commissary: A Glimmer of Humanity
Central to Kerman's narrative is the role of the commissary—a prison store where inmates can purchase various items to make their confined lives more bearable. From essential toiletries to rare luxuries like a radio, the commissary becomes a symbol of autonomy and a connection to the outside world.
“If you have money in your commissary account, you can get a banana, some ibuprofen even some eyeshadow in hummingbird colors.” [09:20]
For Kerman, the commissary was not just a place to buy necessities but a means to retain a semblance of normalcy and control over her environment. Her ability to receive funds from the outside allowed her access to items that provided comfort and a touch of humanity amidst the bleakness of prison life.
The Elusive Radio: A Desire for Connection
Among the items offered in the commissary, the radio stood out as Kerman's most coveted possession. Priced exorbitantly at $42.90—a stark contrast to its $6 street price—the radio represented a vital connection to the outside world. It was her key to movie nights, music, and the news, serving as an escape from the overwhelming noise and loneliness of prison.
“I wanted to hear music. I wanted to hear the news. I wanted to hear voices that had nothing to do with that awful place.” [11:45]
Despite her financial stability through external support, Kerman's repeated attempts to acquire a radio were thwarted by stock shortages orchestrated by a particular prison guard.
“No radios Kerman. No radios Kerman. They were out of stock.” [13:10]
This persistent denial deepened her sense of isolation and frustration, highlighting the limited avenues for personal fulfillment within the prison system.
Breaking Barriers: The Quest for a Radio
Determined to obtain the radio, Kerman took initiative by actively engaging with fellow inmates. As an electrician confined to hanging hooks within the dorms, she leveraged her position to build relationships and gain trust.
“No one is looking out for us in this shithole. We have to look out for each other.” [15:30]
Her efforts led her to Lionel, a high-ranking inmate responsible for the warehouse and commissary inventory. Despite the inherent risks of breaching prison protocols, Kerman approached Lionel with her request, navigating the delicate balance between seeking assistance and adhering to institutional rules.
“Lionel, I am really sorry to bother you, but I've got a question.” [16:00]
Triumph and Reflection
Kerman's persistence culminated in the acquisition of the much-desired radio. The moment she received it was not just about possessing a physical item but about the recognition and regard from Lionel—a gesture that transcended the impersonal nature of prison life.
“I knew in that moment that I had her regard. She saw me for who I was and not just the number that we were supposed to be in that place. And that made my heart sing.” [16:50]
This achievement symbolized a significant personal victory, illustrating the profound impact of human connection and mutual support even within the confines of incarceration.
Conclusion
Piper Kerman's "Wall of Sound" is a compelling testament to resilience, the importance of community, and the pursuit of dignity in the face of systemic adversity. Her narrative not only sheds light on the intricacies of prison life but also underscores the universal human need for connection, recognition, and the small comforts that sustain us during our most challenging times.
Notable Quotes
- “I was transformed, head spinningly, quickly, into prisoner number 111-877-4424.” [05:15]
- “That place and the people who ran it never let you forget that to them, you were nothing but that number.” [06:40]
- “If you have money in your commissary account, you can get a banana, some ibuprofen even some eyeshadow in hummingbird colors.” [09:20]
- “I wanted to hear music. I wanted to hear the news. I wanted to hear voices that had nothing to do with that awful place.” [11:45]
- “No radios Kerman. No radios Kerman. They were out of stock.” [13:10]
- “No one is looking out for us in this shithole. We have to look out for each other.” [15:30]
- “Lionel, I am really sorry to bother you, but I've got a question.” [16:00]
- “I knew in that moment that I had her regard. She saw me for who I was and not just the number that we were supposed to be in that place. And that made my heart sing.” [16:50]
About the Host
Dan Kennedy, the host of this episode, is a writer and performer based in New York. He authored the novel American Spirit and continues to engage audiences with compelling storytelling on The Moth podcast.
Podcast Sponsorship
This episode of The Moth Podcast was sponsored by LegalZoom, offering listeners special discounts on legal services at legalzoom.com.
For more stories and live events, visit themoth.org.