Summary of "Bedtime in Iran" by Sivan Kassarjian

Presented on The Moth Podcast, released April 16, 2012

Introduction

In the poignant and evocative story, "Bedtime in Iran," Sivan Kassarjian recounts her childhood experiences growing up in Iran during the tumultuous period of the Iranian Revolution. Told live at The Moth in 2001 under the theme of "past tense," her narrative delves into themes of family, freedom, and the loss of innocence amidst political upheaval.

Setting the Scene

Sivan begins her story by painting a vivid picture of her family's life in Iran. At eight years old, she was living in an environment of increasing tension as the Iranian Revolution took hold. Her father had established a business school, and her mother a women’s college and university, symbolizing a blend of education and progressive ideals within a society on the brink of drastic change.

"I carefully felt my way into the completely pitch black living room and in the silence I could hear my parents breathing." (02:10)

The Imposition of Curfew

As the revolution intensified, a strict curfew was enforced nightly at 9:00 PM. Electricity was cut off, and the streets were patrolled by soldiers armed with guns and tanks. The pervasive fear of punishment for venturing outside after curfew created an atmosphere of silence and restlessness within the household.

"Every night at 9:00 a curfew was imposed. All the electricity in the country was turned off, and you were not allowed out of your house." (04:25)

Sivan's Rebellion: Declaring Bedtime

Growing up without the structured rules that she observed during family visits to America, Sivan felt constrained by the lack of bedtime and the oppressive environment. In an act of subtle rebellion, she began declaring various bedtimes at random hours, disrupting the enforced silence and prompting her parents to engage more, albeit still within the constraints of their fears.

"I started announcing at random moments, 'Okay, it's my bedtime.' And every time my parents would always say, 'Okay, sweetie, if you really want to, as they did that night in the silent darkness.'" (06:15)

The Flight Plan and Emergency Bags

Aware of the increasing dangers, Sivan took measures to prepare for a possible sudden departure. She meticulously packed emergency overnight bags, selecting a different stuffed animal to ensure its survival alongside hers. This habit underscored her anxiety and the omnipresent threat of instability.

"Every day I'd repack mine and I'd choose a different stuffed animal that was going to make it out alive with me." (08:00)

Encounter with Mariam’s House

Mariam, a beloved neighbor with eighteen sons, represented a semblance of normalcy and warmth in Sivan's life. Her visits to Mariam's house were a respite from the oppressive atmosphere at home. However, this relationship took a dramatic turn one night when Sivan ventured out under the guise of bedtime, seeking refuge.

"I ran out into the alley and I ran down the alley and there was a slight incline... I ran all the way to the end and got to Mariam's door, and I knocked on the door and nothing happened." (10:30)

The Terror of the Revolution

As Sivan fled to Mariam's house, the reality of the revolution's reach became starkly evident. The appearance of a tank with flashlights signaled imminent danger, forcing her to seek shelter. Mariam’s usually affectionate demeanor shifted drastically under pressure, reflecting the fear and suspicion permeating society.

"All I could think of was the princess and the pea. Only I'd always been the princess and now I was the pea." (09:50)

Forced Shelter and the Clash

Inside Mariam's home, Sivan encountered a tense environment. Despite her attempts to find safety, she was subjected to confusion and fear, leading to a confrontation that left her feeling alienated and endangered. The enforced silence and suspicion culminated in Mariam's stern rejection.

"You go home. You go home very fast. You are not our friend. You are dangerous." (10:55)

Return to a Fragile Safety

After the harrowing experience, Sivan returned to her own home, where her father greeted her with a mix of relief and anger. This reunion highlighted the fine line between safety and fear that her family navigated daily.

"Omg, I didn't know where you were. Are you okay? Are you okay?" (11:10)

Reflections on Freedom and Oppression

Sivan reflects on the broader implications of her childhood experiences, drawing connections between personal freedom and political oppression. She discusses the paradox of forced education and the loss of freedom for a nomadic people, emphasizing the complexities of seeking progress within restrictive societal structures.

"They were struggling with freedom and oppression, and people were worried about secret police and spies all over the city." (07:30)

Conclusion

"Bedtime in Iran" is a powerful testament to the resilience of a child navigating the dangers of political unrest. Sivan's narrative not only captures the fear and uncertainty of life during the Iranian Revolution but also underscores the enduring human spirit in the face of adversity. Her story serves as a poignant reminder of the personal costs of societal upheaval and the longing for safety and normalcy.

Notable Quotes

• "I carefully felt my way into the completely pitch black living room and in the silence I could hear my parents breathing." — Sivan Kassarjian (02:10)

• "Every night at 9:00 a curfew was imposed. All the electricity in the country was turned off, and you were not allowed out of your house." — Sivan Kassarjian (04:25)

• "I started announcing at random moments, 'Okay, it's my bedtime.' And every time my parents would always say, 'Okay, sweetie, if you really want to, as they did that night in the silent darkness.'" — Sivan Kassarjian (06:15)

• "You go home. You go home very fast. You are not our friend. You are dangerous." — Mariam (10:55)

Insights and Themes

• Loss of Innocence: Sivan's story reflects the abrupt end of childhood normalcy due to political unrest.

• Family Dynamics: The tension between parents' fear and Sivan's yearning for structure highlights the emotional strain within families during crises.

• Freedom vs. Oppression: The narrative explores the complexities of seeking freedom within an oppressive regime.

• Resilience and Adaptation: Sivan's inventive approach to establishing her own bedtime illustrates resilience in the face of uncertainty.

Conclusion

Sivan Kassarjian's "Bedtime in Iran" is a compelling and heartfelt recounting of a child's struggle for safety and normalcy during one of Iran's most challenging periods. Through vivid storytelling and emotional honesty, she invites listeners to understand the personal impact of political conflict and the enduring hope for peace and stability.