Checking Out Me Historyby John Agard is a powerful... Show more
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Power and Conflict poetry - Checking out me History
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5 Jul 2025
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Checking Out Me History: Key Quotes, Themes, and Annotations
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.
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4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
Checking Out Me History: Key Quotes, Themes, and Annotations
Checking Out Me History by John Agard is a powerful poem that explores themes of identity, history, and cultural erasure. The poem critiques the Eurocentric education system and emphasizes the importance of learning about one's own cultural heritage. Checking Out... Show more
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.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
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.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user