Despite overwhelming response … Language barrier poses problems for Guyana literary pieces at CARIFESTA XII
AS was anticipated, the major issue facing the literary arts component of the Guyana delegation currently representing the country at the 12th Caribbean Festival of Arts (CARIFESTA XII) in Haiti, is the language barrier between the two regional countries. Well represented in all aspects of the arts at CARIFESTA this year, our literary works offer a comprehensive view of what we have achieved in this field.
Speaking with the Guyanese representatives stationed in the literary booth located in the Grand Market in Port-au-Prince, they revealed that the response from the crowd was “overwhelming.”
They explained that currently featured at the exhibition are the Guyana Prize for Literature winning works and shortlisted works, the Guyana Prize for Literature Caribbean award- winning works and the Guyana Classic Library.
Other works of known local writers, they said, have been on display, forming part of Guyana’s collection. “We’re featuring works of people like Martin Carter, Maureen Rampertab, Wilson Harris, Ruel Johnson, Ian McDonald, Chaitram Singh and Dennis Craig”, one of the two representatives added.
While the persons responsible for the exhibition of the literary works have not been able to assess Guyana’s performance on the regional scale, due to their lack of exposure to other Caribbean literary works on display, they gave the assurance that the response from patrons has proven that Guyana’s efforts have been successful.
Not without challenges though, it was noted that the French-English language barrier between the two nations has posed some problems for people who have expressed interest in Guyanese writings.
Additionally, sales of the books at the venue were possible, though it was requested, since the materials on display were just for exhibition. However, recommendations were made by the duo for these books and other pieces of literature to be bought online.
CARIFESTA, which facilitates the gathering of like-minded souls will continue for the next three days with the Grand Market, exhibits, performances, and other cultural orientations dominating the festival.
The events will run from 10:00hrs to midnight daily. It is a fair where Caribbean craft rub shoulders with fashion shows, gastronomy, music and other creative art forms. (Sponsored by Fly Jamaica)
By Ravin Singh in Haiti
