Ep 9. What Is New Orleans?

In Treme season 2 episode 9 titled "What Is New Orleans?", the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina is still apparent throughout the city. The episode features a variety of characters as they navigate the difficulties of rebuilding their lives in a city that is still recovering from one of the worst natural disasters in modern American history.

One of the main storylines of the episode follows Toni Bernette, a criminal defense attorney, as she struggles to uncover the truth behind the death of a young man who was killed during the storm. As she investigates the case, she uncovers evidence of police corruption and brutality and begins to question whether justice can truly be served in a city that has been so deeply affected by tragedy.

Meanwhile, musician Antoine Batiste tries to make ends meet by playing gigs around the city and teaching music to young children. He begins to worry, however, that the culture and music of New Orleans is in danger of disappearing as the city struggles to recover and attract new residents.

Another storyline features Chef Janette Desautel as she tries to hold onto her restaurant in the wake of the storm. She faces mounting debts and struggles to keep her staff motivated as they work to rebuild the establishment.

Throughout the episode, viewers are given a glimpse into the city of New Orleans as it tries to find its footing after Hurricane Katrina. The characters grapple with the unique challenges of living in a city with such a rich cultural history, but also one that has been ravaged by disaster.

As the title suggests, the episode prompts viewers to consider what New Orleans truly is. Is it simply a city struggling to survive in the wake of a catastrophic event, or is it something more? Is it a place that embodies a unique spirit and culture that cannot be found anywhere else? These questions are left open-ended, but the episode suggests that the people of New Orleans are determined to rebuild and preserve their community, no matter the challenges they may face.

Overall, "What Is New Orleans?" is a powerful and thought-provoking episode that examines the impact of Hurricane Katrina on the people and culture of the city of New Orleans. It highlights the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity and the rich cultural history that is worth fighting for.