Introduction
This essay explores the transformation of Rolf Carlé, the protagonist in Isabel Allende’s short story “And of Clay Are We Created,” in his approach to reporting. Published in 1989 as part of *The Stories of Eva Luna*, the narrative centres on Rolf, a seasoned journalist, who covers a volcanic eruption in Latin America and becomes deeply involved in the plight of Azucena, a young girl trapped in mud. The purpose of this analysis is to examine how Rolf’s professional detachment evolves into emotional engagement, reflecting a shift in his identity as a reporter. The essay will first discuss Rolf’s initial objectivity, then analyse the factors contributing to his emotional transformation, and finally consider the implications of this change for his journalistic role. Through this exploration, supported by textual evidence and critical perspectives, the essay aims to highlight the tension between professional duty and human empathy in crisis reporting.
Rolf’s Initial Professional Detachment
At the outset of the story, Rolf Carlé embodies the archetype of a detached journalist, prioritising objectivity over personal involvement. His role as a television reporter is defined by a clinical approach, evident when he arrives at the disaster site with a focus on capturing dramatic footage for global audiences. Allende describes him as someone accustomed to observing tragedy through a camera lens, maintaining a barrier between himself and the suffering he documents (Allende, 1989). This detachment is typical of traditional journalism ethics, which often demand impartiality to ensure accurate reporting (Ross, 2010). Rolf’s initial behaviour reflects this ethos; he operates with efficiency, directing his crew and framing the story of Azucena’s entrapment as a poignant news item. Indeed, his early interactions with her are marked by a professional tone, viewing her as a subject rather than an individual in distress. This approach underscores a broader commentary on the media’s tendency to commodify human suffering, a point often critiqued in literary and media studies (Ward, 2015).
The Catalyst for Change: Emotional Connection with Azucena
Rolf’s transformation begins as he forges a personal connection with Azucena, challenging his professional boundaries. Unlike his previous assignments, where emotional distance was maintained, his prolonged interaction with the girl—staying by her side for days—erodes his objectivity. Allende vividly portrays this shift when Rolf abandons his camera to comfort Azucena, speaking to her not as a reporter but as a companion (Allende, 1989). This moment marks a significant departure from his earlier detachment, illustrating how direct human contact can disrupt journalistic norms. Critics argue that such experiences reflect the inevitable overlap between personal empathy and professional duty in trauma reporting (Boltanski, 1999). Furthermore, Rolf’s memories of his own past traumas, triggered by Azucena’s suffering, deepen this bond, blurring the line between observer and participant. Arguably, this vulnerability reveals the limitations of strict objectivity when faced with profound human crises.
Implications for Rolf’s Role as a Journalist
The change in Rolf’s reporting style raises critical questions about the sustainability of detachment in journalism. By the story’s conclusion, he is no longer the dispassionate observer but a deeply affected individual, unable to separate himself from Azucena’s fate. Allende suggests that this transformation, while humanising, renders him ineffective as a reporter, as he can no longer return to his former role with the same detachment (Allende, 1989). This outcome aligns with scholarly discussions on the psychological toll of crisis reporting, where emotional involvement can lead to burnout or ethical dilemmas (Ross, 2010). However, it also highlights the potential for more empathetic journalism, where reporters advocate for change rather than merely document events. Generally, Rolf’s experience illustrates the complex interplay between professional standards and personal compassion, a tension that remains unresolved in both the story and broader media discourse (Ward, 2015).
Conclusion
In summary, Rolf Carlé’s journey in “And of Clay Are We Created” encapsulates a profound shift from detached reporting to emotional engagement. Initially defined by professional objectivity, his connection with Azucena dismantles these barriers, revealing the human cost of maintaining such distance. This transformation, while rendering him vulnerable, underscores the limitations of traditional journalistic norms in the face of personal trauma. The implications of Rolf’s change suggest a need for journalism to balance empathy with duty, acknowledging the reporter’s humanity. Ultimately, Allende’s narrative invites reflection on how crisis reporting shapes—and is shaped by—the personal experiences of those who bear witness. This tension remains a pertinent issue in media studies, prompting further exploration into how journalists navigate their dual roles as observers and humans.
References
- Allende, I. (1989) *The Stories of Eva Luna*. Atria Books.
- Boltanski, L. (1999) *Distant Suffering: Morality, Media and Politics*. Cambridge University Press.
- Ross, K. (2010) *Gendered Media: Women, Men, and Identity Politics*. Rowman & Littlefield.
- Ward, S. J. A. (2015) *Ethics and the Media: An Introduction*. Cambridge University Press.
