The Moth Radio Hour: Ionesco, Voodoo and Therapy
The Moth | October 29, 2013

Introduction

In this captivating episode of The Moth Radio Hour, three poignant and diverse stories unfold, each exploring unique facets of human experience. Hosted by Kathryn Burns, the episode titled "Ionesco, Voodoo and Therapy" delves into a high school student's desperate measures to graduate, a voodoo priestess's unconventional methods to help a football team, and a man's heartfelt journey through therapy. These narratives not only entertain but also offer deep insights into perseverance, belief, and the complexities of human relationships.

1. Michael Ripps: The High School French Fraud

Timestamp: [04:33]

Michael Ripps opens the episode with a gripping tale from his youth in Omaha, Nebraska. He recounts the enigmatic Richard Flamer, a mysterious figure known for dispensing bizarre and unrelated information—such as the peculiar belief that Nebraskans struggle with second languages and the absurd notion that divine beings enter the Earth through pubic hair.

Notable Quote:
“If you've heard either of these two things, just interrupt me.” — Michael Ripps [00:45]

Ripps connects Flamer's cryptic advice to his own academic struggles. Faced with failing his French class and jeopardizing his college acceptance, Ripps concocts a plan to enter a state-sponsored foreign language competition. Desperate, he translates an obscure French play by Eugene Ionesco into English, hoping to secure victory and graduation.

However, his plan nearly unravels when he proudly reveals his "translation" to his brother, only to discover that Ionesco was never an obscure American playwright but a renowned French author. The revelation threatens his graduation and family reputation. In a twist of fate, the competition judges unknowingly appreciate Ripps's fraudulent work, awarding him the top prize and publishing his translation.

Notable Quote:
“I knew from the bottomless mercy of this man's soul. He had done everything he needed to do to make sure I did not win the competition.” — Michael Ripps [12:20]

This story highlights themes of desperation, ingenuity, and the thin line between success and failure. Ripps reflects on the unintended consequences of his actions and the poignant irony of his triumph stemming from deceit.

2. Ava K. Jones: Voodoo and the Saints' Super Bowl Bid

Timestamp: [22:50]

Ava K. Jones presents a vibrant and mystical account of her role as a voodoo priestess called upon by the New Orleans Saints in their quest to win the Super Bowl. Transitioning from a respected attorney to a spiritual leader, Ava harnesses traditional voodoo practices to sway the outcome of the game.

Notable Quote:
“There is such a thing as the spirituality of football. It may very well be that the ability to win or lose a Super Bowl may be contained right here in this little red flannel charm bag.” — Ava K. Jones [23:29]

Equipped with her dance troupe, drummers, a pet boa constrictor named Esprit, and a fifth of Gordon's dry gin, Ava orchestrates a ritual at the Superdome. Her performance, blending African, Caribbean, and New Orleans traditions, aims to invoke powerful ancestral spirits and deities like Oya and Damballa to grant the Saints victory.

Notable Quote:
“I tell you what, the New York Times. All right, and so that's my story. But, you know, as the world turns, sometimes what's on top of the world has to come down.” — Ava K. Jones [29:17]

Ava's tale is a mesmerizing blend of faith, culture, and sportsmanship, illustrating how belief systems can intersect with everyday endeavors in unexpected ways. Her story underscores the lengths to which individuals will go to achieve success and the profound impact of cultural heritage on personal and communal aspirations.

3. Andy Christie: Love and Loss in Therapy

Timestamp: [34:20]

Andy Christie shares a deeply emotional and introspective story about his relationship with his therapist, Phyllis. Over sixteen years, Andy develops an unspoken affection for Phyllis, blurring the lines between professional and personal boundaries.

Notable Quote:
"I swear to myself and to my girlfriend that I was going to do this right this time." — Andy Christie [34:45]

As Phyllis undergoes chemotherapy, Andy grapples with the impending loss of both his therapist and the unique bond they've formed. The narrative crescendos with Phyllis's passing, leaving Andy to confront his feelings of regret and the unanswered questions about their relationship.

Notable Quote:
"I saw her for almost three years to work on a fantasy with someone that I loved because she was so real, I squandered her." — Andy Christie [51:30]

Andy's story delves into themes of unrequited love, professional ethics, and the human need for connection. It poignantly captures the complexities of seeking solace and understanding through another person, and the lasting impact such relationships can have on one's life.

Conclusion

"Ionesco, Voodoo and Therapy" serves as a testament to The Moth's commitment to showcasing authentic human experiences. Through Michael Ripps's clever deceit, Ava K. Jones's spiritual intervention, and Andy Christie's heartfelt journey, listeners are invited to reflect on the diverse ways individuals navigate challenges, seek validation, and form meaningful connections. This episode not only entertains but also provokes thought about the lengths we go to achieve our desires and the profound effects of our actions on ourselves and others.

Notable Quotes Recap:

1. Michael Ripps:
   “If you've heard either of these two things, just interrupt me.” [00:45]

2. Michael Ripps:
   “I knew from the bottomless mercy of this man's soul...” [12:20]

3. Ava K. Jones:
   “There is such a thing as the spirituality of football...” [23:29]

4. Ava K. Jones:
   “I tell you what, the New York Times...” [29:17]

5. Andy Christie:
   “I swear to myself and to my girlfriend that I was going to do this right this time.” [34:45]

6. Andy Christie:
   “I saw her for almost three years to work on a fantasy...” [51:30]

This episode is a compelling exploration of human resilience, cultural identity, and the intricate web of relationships that shape our lives. Whether through academic deception, spiritual practices, or therapeutic bonds, the stories shared by Ripps, Jones, and Christie offer valuable lessons on the human condition.