"Checking Out Me History" by John Agard is a powerful... Show more
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66
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Erin Wilson
30/07/2025
English Literature
Checking Out Me History annotations
2,272
•
30 Jul 2025
•
Annotated Checking Out Me History Poem Text, Summary, and PDF
Erin Wilson
@ezpez06
Page 2: Reclaiming Identity Through History
The second page of the Checking out me History poem pdf continues to explore the theme of hidden Black history and the process of reclaiming one's identity. Agard introduces more historical figures, emphasizing their importance and the injustice of their omission from traditional education.
The poet presents Nanny of the Maroons, describing her with vivid, nature-inspired imagery:
Quote: "Nanny de maroon / see-far woman / of mountain dream / fire-woman struggle / hopeful stream / to freedom river"
This description contrasts sharply with the simplistic portrayals of European figures, highlighting the depth and significance of Black historical figures.
Agard continues to juxtapose European and non-European historical events and figures. He mentions Lord Nelson and Waterloo alongside Shaka the great Zulu, and Columbus's 1492 voyage with the fate of the Caribs and Arawaks.
Highlight: The contrast between colonizers and indigenous peoples emphasizes the poem's themes of resistance and freedom.
The poet then introduces Mary Seacole, comparing her to Florence Nightingale:
Definition: Mary Seacole - A Jamaican nurse who provided care for British soldiers during the Crimean War, often overlooked in historical accounts.
Agard describes Seacole's bravery and impact using powerful metaphors:
Quote: "a healing star / among the wounded / a yellow sunrise / to the dying"
The poem concludes with a strong statement of self-determination and identity formation:
Quote: "But now I checking out me own history / I carving out me identity"
This final declaration emphasizes the Checking Out Me History context of resistance against imposed historical narratives and the importance of self-education in understanding one's cultural heritage.
Page 1: Challenging the Narrative
The first page of the Annotated checking out me history poem pdf introduces the main themes and structure of the poem. Agard begins with the repetitive phrase "Dem tell me," establishing a rhythm that echoes throughout the work. This repetition creates a sense of frustration with the limited historical narrative presented in traditional education.
Highlight: The use of Guyanese dialect in phrases like "Dem tell me" immediately sets the tone for the poem's exploration of cultural identity.
The poet employs powerful metaphors to illustrate the suppression of his own history. He writes, "Bandage up me eye with me own history / Blind me to my own identity," suggesting that the education system deliberately obscures his cultural heritage.
Quote: "Bandage up me eye with me own history / Blind me to my own identity"
Agard then contrasts well-known European historical events and figures with lesser-known Black historical figures. He mentions "1066 and all dat" alongside Toussaint L'Ouverture, a leader of the Haitian Revolution.
Example: The juxtaposition of Dick Whittington's cat with Toussaint L'Ouverture highlights the trivialization of important Black historical figures in traditional education.
The poem's structure uses short lines and a simple rhyme scheme to emphasize the contrast between the childlike nursery rhymes of European history and the more serious, impactful history of Black figures.
Vocabulary: L'Ouverture - A leader of the Haitian Revolution who helped establish Haiti as the first Black republic.
We thought you’d never ask...
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Where can I download the Knowunity app?
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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
Annotated Checking Out Me History Poem Text, Summary, and PDF
Erin Wilson
@ezpez06
"Checking Out Me History" by John Agard is a powerful poem that critiques the Eurocentric education system and emphasizes the importance of learning one's own cultural history. The poet uses repetition, dialect, and contrasts between European and non-European historical figures... Show more
Page 2: Reclaiming Identity Through History
The second page of the Checking out me History poem pdf continues to explore the theme of hidden Black history and the process of reclaiming one's identity. Agard introduces more historical figures, emphasizing their importance and the injustice of their omission from traditional education.
The poet presents Nanny of the Maroons, describing her with vivid, nature-inspired imagery:
Quote: "Nanny de maroon / see-far woman / of mountain dream / fire-woman struggle / hopeful stream / to freedom river"
This description contrasts sharply with the simplistic portrayals of European figures, highlighting the depth and significance of Black historical figures.
Agard continues to juxtapose European and non-European historical events and figures. He mentions Lord Nelson and Waterloo alongside Shaka the great Zulu, and Columbus's 1492 voyage with the fate of the Caribs and Arawaks.
Highlight: The contrast between colonizers and indigenous peoples emphasizes the poem's themes of resistance and freedom.
The poet then introduces Mary Seacole, comparing her to Florence Nightingale:
Definition: Mary Seacole - A Jamaican nurse who provided care for British soldiers during the Crimean War, often overlooked in historical accounts.
Agard describes Seacole's bravery and impact using powerful metaphors:
Quote: "a healing star / among the wounded / a yellow sunrise / to the dying"
The poem concludes with a strong statement of self-determination and identity formation:
Quote: "But now I checking out me own history / I carving out me identity"
This final declaration emphasizes the Checking Out Me History context of resistance against imposed historical narratives and the importance of self-education in understanding one's cultural heritage.
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: Challenging the Narrative
The first page of the Annotated checking out me history poem pdf introduces the main themes and structure of the poem. Agard begins with the repetitive phrase "Dem tell me," establishing a rhythm that echoes throughout the work. This repetition creates a sense of frustration with the limited historical narrative presented in traditional education.
Highlight: The use of Guyanese dialect in phrases like "Dem tell me" immediately sets the tone for the poem's exploration of cultural identity.
The poet employs powerful metaphors to illustrate the suppression of his own history. He writes, "Bandage up me eye with me own history / Blind me to my own identity," suggesting that the education system deliberately obscures his cultural heritage.
Quote: "Bandage up me eye with me own history / Blind me to my own identity"
Agard then contrasts well-known European historical events and figures with lesser-known Black historical figures. He mentions "1066 and all dat" alongside Toussaint L'Ouverture, a leader of the Haitian Revolution.
Example: The juxtaposition of Dick Whittington's cat with Toussaint L'Ouverture highlights the trivialization of important Black historical figures in traditional education.
The poem's structure uses short lines and a simple rhyme scheme to emphasize the contrast between the childlike nursery rhymes of European history and the more serious, impactful history of Black figures.
Vocabulary: L'Ouverture - A leader of the Haitian Revolution who helped establish Haiti as the first Black republic.
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