New Orleans
“America only has 3 cities: New York, San Francisco and New Orleans. Everything else is Cleveland.” - Tennessee Williams
The Big Easy
Great food, a history of jazz, Voodoo, murders and haunts- there is no place like New Orleans, and they know it. There is no shortage of enthralling literature on this town.
We visited Frenchman Art and Books on Frenchman Street for inspiration.
The Accidental City
by Lawrence N. PowellIf you’re interested in the history of all the various cultures that made their footprint in New Orleans, look no further than this 2013 account of the melting pot that made this modern day melting pot. With highlights on the Spanish, French and African influences, The Accidental City helps to understand why and how NOLA ended up as it is- arguably a city that shouldn’t exist. Sure, it made sense in the 18th century, but how did it last so long? It is below sea level after all!
Empire of Sin
by Gary KristEmpire of Sin follows New Orlean’s 30 year “War with itself”, that stemmed from the elitist class’ plight with the seedy underbelly of the city. All true stories, this book tells tales of murder, lust, prostitution and jazz in early 20th century NOLA. Filled with “stories of flamboyant prostitutes, crusading moral reformers, dissolute jazzmen, ruthless Mafiosi, venal politicians, and one extremely violent serial killer, all battling for primacy in a wild and wicked city unlike any other in the world,” this is one not to miss.
Jean Laffite Revealed
by Ashley Oliphant and Beth YarbroughMany myths and legends surround one of the last great pirates, Jean Laffite, but this book presents new evidence about his life and his eventual disappearance in the waters of the Caribbean, leaving a trail that no one knew existed until now. Following his time in Southern Louisiana, New Orleans and the American South, Jean Laffite Revealed traces the infamous name through his rise to power as a privateer and smuggler in the Gulf, and his involvement in the Battle of New Orleans. A great read while enjoying a cold drink at New Orleans’ oldest bar named after him- Laffite’s Blacksmith Bar, known to be haunted with the spirits of those he murdered.
A Streetcar Named Desire
by Tennessee WilliamsWe would be doing New Orleans a disservice by not mentioning one of the most famous American masterpieces set in NOLA. Whether you’ve seen the Broadway hit or not, Tennessee Williams introduced the world to characters who have become archetypes for the post-war 1940s. The rich character development as well as the setting in the hot south, Williiams was ahead of his time in Desire by discussing social issues such as homosexual relationships, domestic violence and a woman's monetary independence from her husband.