Derek Walcott and the Creation of a Classical Caribbean

Derek Walcott's Omeros is a book-length poem that retells the epics of Homer, Virgil, and Dante in St. Lucia. It is part of a longer and more vibrant discussion between the ancient Mediterranean and the modern Caribbean that Walcott started. This book examines his interaction with Graeco-Roman antiquity from three key angles, arguing that Caribbean art can exist in a global, transhistorical canon and that syncretism is at the heart of Caribbean life and art. It also demonstrates how Caribbean literature creates the world anew while not obliterating the past.

Format: Hardback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 15 June 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Derek Walcott, a renowned Caribbean writer, delved into the rich tapestry of ancient Greece and Rome throughout his illustrious career. His literary prowess was particularly evident in his book-length poem, "Recasting the Epics of Homer, Virgil, and Dante in St. Lucia," which brought the timeless tales of these great classical authors to life in the vibrant Caribbean setting. However, "Omeros" stands as merely the culminating point of a profound and ongoing dialogue that Walcott fostered between the ancient Mediterranean and the modern Caribbean.

In his groundbreaking work, "Derek Walcott and the Creation of a Classical Caribbean," the author delves into the intricate ways in which Walcott engaged with Graeco-Roman antiquity. Through a comprehensive exploration, the book offers three key perspectives on Walcott's relationship with this ancient civilization. Firstly, it emphasizes the interconnectedness of time, suggesting that a linear perception must be complemented by an understanding of its simultaneous nature. This perspective dismantles the oppressive power of history and affirms the equality of the "New World" with the "Old." Secondly, the book highlights the profound syncretism that permeates Caribbean life and art. Influences from Africa, Asia, and Europe coexist harmoniously with the indigenous cultures, forming the core of Caribbean identity. Thirdly, it underscores the transformative power of Caribbean literature, which creates a new world while respecting and honoring the rich tapestry of the past.

By embracing these postcolonial conceptions, Walcott unveiled the profound reasons why classical reception has been a cherished aspect of Caribbean artistry. His literary works not only celebrated the timeless wisdom of the ancient Greeks and Romans but also breathed new life into their narratives, resonating with readers across the globe. Through his profound engagement with the classical world, Walcott not only enriched his own artistic expression but also contributed to the broader understanding and appreciation of Caribbean culture and heritage.

Weight: 470g
Dimension: 163 x 242 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474291521