Poets and authors on Cayman Brac encourage people to read, visit local libraries, write and be creative, at monthly poets nights at the Cayman Brac Public Library.
Members come together every month to express themselves through their original works. Spearhead by Brac librarian Latasia Brown-Conolly, the event is part of the library’s literacy campaign, which encourages children and adults to read.
The interactive night features Quincy Brown, a local poet, comedian, singer and storyteller, authors Elton Michaels and Kathleen Bodden-Harris, artist Simone Scott, poet Ann Morgan, schoolchildren and others in the community.
“Poetry night is a platform for people who like to write poetry and even for those who do not write poetry but just like to sit and listen to the artistic creativity of the poets,” Brown said.
Readings, including colorful poetry about life on the islands, political commentary and content with strong moral values, are shared with the audience.
Bodden-Harris, for example, shares poetry about enjoying the tropical fruit mango.
Michaels writes about baby chickens and little iguanas, and his stories and poems speak about dangers children find themselves in when they don’t listen to their parents.
Scott highlights protecting the environment, while Morgan’s poetry is about how God works in your life.
“When I know I am down to nothing, I know that God is up to something,” Morgan says. Her poems encourage people to not give up but to rely on God’s providence.
“It is about knowing the audience and what piece to use and what not what to use,” says Brown, who is excited at the prospect of poetry night catching on among visitors to the island as well. “It is an array of poetic forms and everyone is invited to attend.
“It takes time to catch on, but we are hoping others will come out and participate,” Brown said.
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