Rediscovering the Taino and Caribbean History with Olive Senior on Paradise Once

In this compelling episode of Dis A Fi Mi History Podcast, host Wendy Aris dives deep into Caribbean history and colonialism through a conversation with Jamaican poet and author Olive Senior. They explore Senior's novel Paradise Once, a researched reimagining of the Taíno people in Cuba two decades after Columbus's arrival, shedding light on indigenous heritage and the legacies of colonialism in the Caribbean. The discussion covers themes of language, spirituality, environmental stewardship, and the blending of indigenous and African traditions, offering listeners a rich tapestry of Caribbean culture and history.

Ms. Senior also shares valuable advice for writers, emphasizing curiosity, mastering the craft, and expanding narratives beyond personal emotion to encompass broader family genealogy and community histories. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in Caribbean history, family heritage, and understanding the lasting impact of colonialism.

BIO:

Olive Marjorie Senior (born 23 December 1941) is a Jamaican poet, novelist, short story and non-fiction writer based in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. She was awarded the Musgrave Gold Medal in 2005 by the Institute of Jamaica for her contributions to literature.Other awards she has won include the OCM Bocas Prize for Caribbean Literature.Senior was appointed Poet Laureate of Jamaica in 2021, serving in the post until 2024.

Links:

https://www.torontomu.ca/olivesenior/author.html

https://poetryarchive.org/poet/olive-senior/

https://www.facebook.com/OliveSeniorWriter/

https://x.com/olivesenior?lang=en

https://www.instagram.com/olivetheauthor/

https://www.akashicbooks.com/catalog/paradise-once/

 

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Morning Journal Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CXMTL3NV

Genealogy Workbook: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09NRHG3M3

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Great Research Resource https://www.ancestorsofparadise.com/

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Theme Music "Africa" is modern ethnic track with fresh chords, African vocal, orchestra. License Creative Commons Attribution license (reuse allowed)

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