Caribbean Thoughts on Shakespeare

In this my poem on Othello, the issues concerning the Black man arise. Shakespeare is accurate in his presentation of the character, and I am deliberate in poetic exposition. Othello comes as a powerful addition to Shakespeare’s characters, the victorious Black man, and seen through Caribbean eyes there is much revelation.

My original performance poetry on Feste from Twelfth Night.  Feste emerges with the radiance of the Caribbean calypsonian. Such social commentary, verbal prowess, wit, and spicy lyrics are signature features of the calypso.

My original performance poetry on Maria from Twelfth Night.  Complete with Caribbean headtie and cocoyea broom her gesture and presence in performance revealed the power and influence of the servant. Such power is treasured by Caribbean people.

This is Episode 4, entitled ‘Caliban Hears Drums’. This poetic piece goes directly to memory, ancestral past, rhythms of the drum, playing always in Caliban’s ear. Remembrance and ancestral rhythm is part of the reality for the person in the Caribbean diaspora.

So far I have presented to you "Caliban the Native",  "Ariel" and now - "Before Prospero Reach".   This marks three poetic renditions based on Shakespeare's The Tempest.  Look forward to some discussion in the next episode. Stay tuned to "Caribbean Thoughts on Shakespeare".

Episode 2 features my original performance poem on Ariel. Ariel was freed from cloven pine by Prospero, then to be made his slave. So Ariel is servant second time around, another plight of the native. 

My original poetry on Caliban, from William Shakespeare's 'The Tempest', through post-colonial lens.