Claudia Rankine, the well-regarded poet and playwright, talked about her latest book, Triage, with hosts Christian Barter, Jennifer Maritza McCauley, and Whitney Terrell. They explored the complex ties between the book's narrator and a character called “the theorist, ” touching on themes of collapse and action.
In Triage, the narrator and the theorist, who have a long history, greet each other with a ritual of collapsing into one another’s arms. This symbolizes their differing reactions to chaos. The theorist calls for action, while the narrator finds comfort in “silences, routines, and quietude.”
Rankine linked these dialogues to Sophocles' Antigone, especially against the backdrop of modern issues like the conflict in Gaza and policies during the Trump administration. She stressed the role of visual imagery in her writing and read from Triage during the podcast.
Whitney Terrell noted a key scene where the narrator, inspired by Antigone, writes to the theorist, criticizing Trump’s policies on trans rights, choice, and refugees. This reflects her frustration with the theorist’s inaction, mirroring her own inner struggle.
Rankine praised her NYU students for their willingness to risk everything for causes like Gaza, contrasting them with people in Minnesota who have risked their lives for their beliefs. This tension between action and inaction threads through Triage.
Christian Barter remarked that Rankine’s earlier works, like Don’t Let Me Be Lonely and Citizen, highlight the power of language. He questioned if Triage continues or challenges this theme. Rankine explained that the book is an evolution, not a reversal, of her ideas.
“The process of Triage is the conversation, ” she said. “It’s about whether people can truly see and engage with each other’s conditions.” The book's structure, divided into four conversations, seeks connection amid social divides.
Rankine pointed out that many today avoid engaging with opposing views, which she sees as inaction. She aims to foster dialogue, even on tough issues.
Terrell commented on the value of characters discussing without resolving differences. Rankine admitted her perspective changed while writing. Initially, she planned a different ending but chose to revise it.
In her original ending, the theorist dies, mirroring Antigone. But Rankine found it too simplistic for life's complexities. She wanted an ending showing ongoing struggles, especially as politics and global crises evolve.
Rankine’s insights into her work show a deep connection to current events and the human experience. As she keeps blending art and activism, Triage stands as a testament to the power of dialogue in a divided world.
