Page 2: Continuing Themes and Conclusion

The second page of the Checking Out Me History annotated PDF continues to contrast European historical figures with those from Black and Caribbean history. The poem maintains its rhythmic structure and use of Caribbean dialect, reinforcing the narrator's cultural identity.

The poem introduces additional historical figures, such as Nanny de Maroon, described as a "fire-woman" and "see-far woman," emphasizing her strength and foresight. This contrasts with the European figures mentioned, like Lord Nelson and Christopher Columbus.

Definition: Nanny de Maroon was a leader of the Jamaican Maroons in the 18th century, known for her role in resisting British colonial rule.

The poem critiques the omission of important Black historical figures from traditional education. It mentions Shaka the great Zulu and questions what happened to the Caribs and Arawaks, indigenous peoples of the Caribbean.

Highlight: The line "but what happen to de Caribs and de Arawaks too" draws attention to the often-overlooked impact of colonization on indigenous populations.

Mary Seacole, a Jamaican nurse who served in the Crimean War, is presented as a counterpoint to Florence Nightingale. The poem emphasizes Seacole's bravery and dedication, describing her as "a healing star / among the wounded / a yellow sunrise / to the dying."

Quote: "she still brave the Russian snow" underscores Mary Seacole's determination and courage in the face of adversity.

The poem concludes with a powerful statement of self-determination. The narrator declares, "But now I checking out me own history / I carving out me identity," emphasizing the importance of taking control of one's own historical narrative and cultural identity.

Highlight: The final lines of the poem encapsulate its main themes of reclaiming one's history and forging a strong sense of identity.

Checking Out Me History analysis reveals a complex exploration of cultural identity, historical erasure, and the power of education. The poem's structure and use of language reinforce its themes, creating a powerful critique of Eurocentric historical narratives and emphasizing the importance of diverse perspectives in understanding the past.

Page 1: Introduction and Structure

The first page of the Checking Out Me History poem pdf introduces the poem's structure and key themes. John Agard, born in 1949, uses repetition and Caribbean dialect to create a sense of "them and us" between the narrator and the educational system.

The poem's structure incorporates oral poetry features, including strong rhymes and broken syntax, emphasizing the importance of oral communication in Caribbean culture. The use of phonetic spelling reflects the narrator's Caribbean accent, further reinforcing the theme of cultural identity.

Highlight: The poem's opening lines, "Dem tell me / Wha dem want to tell me," immediately establish the conflict between the narrator's received education and his desire for a more inclusive history.

The poem employs metaphors of vision and blindness to represent knowledge and ignorance. This is evident in lines such as "Bandage up me eye with me own history," suggesting that the narrator's true heritage has been hidden from him.

Quote: "Blind me to me own identity" emphasizes how the lack of cultural education has affected the narrator's sense of self.

The poem contrasts British historical figures and events with those from Black and Caribbean history. For example, it mentions "Dick Whittington and he cat" alongside "Toussaint L'Ouverture," highlighting the disparity in historical education.

Example: The poem references "1066 and all dat" as an example of British history taught in schools, while introducing Toussaint L'Ouverture as a significant figure in Black history who is often overlooked.

The use of nursery rhymes and pantomime references serves to make British history seem trivial compared to the more substantial figures from Black history, such as Toussaint L'Ouverture, who is described as "de thorn / to de French / Toussaint de beacon / of de Haitian Revolution."

Vocabulary: "Maroon" refers to escaped slaves who formed independent settlements, highlighting the poem's focus on resistance and freedom.