The Calypso Singer: A Windrush Story

The lens directed at the Calypso singer,

Aldwin Roberts for a brighter future.

It was 1948, and the Empire Windrush docked

with many thinking of going back to the armed forces

shocked at a reception that brought many to re-focus

in due course, living in different circumstances

where skies were gray and the mood sombre

yet many still came in large numbers

to fill jobs where some were vacant

so gradually becoming noticed for being

hardworking and pleasant.

‘London is the Place for Me’* a song that

resonates still in today’s climate.

Where we are facing changes so variant.

Let us sing and appreciate the talent,

we see in all cultures to surpass those

whose outlook is less than benevolent.

Life changes all the time so there is less room

for arrogance,

but more for cultural diversity in all its magnificence.

(c) nature thoughts nw/ Kol-C, The Poet Reviewer

*written and sung by the Calypso singer, Aldwin Roberts (also known as Lord Kitchener)

[Hollie]

Hello Colleen, what a wonderful poem celebrating the cultural diversity within the commonwealth! What was the initial inspiration for the piece?

• This reply was modified 3 years, 4 months ago by Hollie.
• This reply was modified 3 years, 4 months ago by Hollie.

Coming from a Commonweath country, the Queen’s visit to Jamaica was well received in the Seventies.

Thank you for your response! You mentioned that you had a singing part in the Windrush 2021 anthem organised by Pegasus Opera company, how did you find this experience?

In terms of your inspiration as a writer, do you draw from other Jamaican poets? Or, do you have favourite poem from Jamaica you would like to share?