Derek Walcott Reading

Christopher Merrill introduces the Nobel Prize-winning poet, Derek Walcott. Walcott describes the process of writing his epic poem Omeros, and then reads from Omeros. He discusses themes of post-colonial identity evoked in Omeros. He explains the historical background of Tiepolo’s Hound, a collection of poems about Caribbean artist Camille Pissarro. He reads a selection of poems from that book, then takes questions from the audience.

Play Audio (1 hour, 23 min.)

In: International Writing Program Archive | Poetry

Authors: Derek Walcott

Date Recorded: September 13, 2002

Works Read: Readings from Omeros and Tiepolo's Hound, by Derek Walcott.

Program: Ida Beam Lecture Series

Format: reading

Contributors: Introduction by Christopher Merrill.

Topics: New formalism in poetry; epic poetry; exile; Caribbean history; St. Lucia; Caribbean Art; Camille Pissarro; post-colonial identity; African diaspora ; Chaka Zulu

Note: Other names for Camille Pissarro include Kami Pisaro and Camille Pisarro.

Play Audio (1 hour, 23 min.)