On Statia, electricity nowadays feels like a given. Until it cuts out — during cooking, a movie or a shower — always at the least convenient moment.
That’s when you hear who owns a generator. The sound shifts from annoying hum to the new sound of luxury. Where one runs, lights shine and the AC hums.

There are three kinds of owners: the lucky ones whose generator starts, the optimists whose almost does, and the tinkerers who borrowed parts to fix something else. Neighbors who hardly speak suddenly show up to recharge: a phone, a fan or themselves. Here, friendships are powered less by words and more by an extension cord.

During hurricanes, a generator can keep light, cooling and food going for days. On Statia, it’s no luxury but a necessity.

And whoever owns one has cold beer, plenty of friends and the most popular backyard in town.