Lifestyle Storylines

Word Masters Live II - Caribbean Comedy is a  recording of the June 2001 show that includes  Extempo Calypso. The talkers portray various  aspects of Island life and comment on topical issues  of the day, occurring any place in the world. 

Like the first compact disc Word Masters Live - Island  Comedy, Live II demonstrates the distinctive English speaking Caribbean form of oral expression. There is  a lighthearted commentary manner to topical  issues, and serious matters, that convey a comedic, superficial attitude that in reality belies the  seriousness that is generally felt by the speaker. In  large measure, the general population shares the  view of the talkers. In this recording, as it is in  everyday conversation, double entendre is common  and the risqué connotations are more usually  intended, than not.

A careful listen, however, permits one to hear two or  more things. You hear the different accents from the  various countries; then you are captivated by the  simple and sophisticated play on, and of, words.  Observe Saluche's use of the word "Handsome" and  Ken's switch from "Umpire" to "Empire" in "Sports  Television". Tommy has the same artfulness in  "Courthouse Commess".

Marcus' "Drunk and Disorderly" is a take-off from  Sparrow's calypso of the same name. The drunken  man is familiar to most who grew up in the West  Indies. The man's loquaciousness, however, reveals  his knowledge and misuse of English but also a not  so funny action some men take to show displeasure  with a woman's behavior. 

The bawdy elements of life are well represented in  the routines of Tommy, Rachel and Donna and elicit  hearty laughs. But the latter two could also stimulate  one to some thinking with "Showtime - Sex on TV",  "Let Men Be Men", and "Oprah".

Live II has well considered opinion. Ken - "Sports  Television" - takes a lighter, understated approach as  does Sprang's - "Planes to Represent the Culture".  Amina has an appealing style and manner in  presenting her opinion. Whether in the vernacular  or not, one hears a well-modulated, polished,  serious voice even at a funny remark. Listen, and  listen again, to Amina's "Cultural Anorexia", "  Remote Control People", and "Dead Weight  Adjusters". Hers are words for the mind more than  for a laugh. And all that is word mastery Caribbean style,  something you can't help but admire and enjoy.  [eCaroh/Ron]

32nd Year Caribbean Week in Massachusetts. 

Celebrating our Caribbean heritage is an acknowledgement of its influence on our present condition. Its attributes can be discerned in  the trajectory from the past. Our first arrival came through the commercial savagery of transporting enslaved Africans who were taken  to Barbados and then shipped here. We can chart what we have accomplished; where we are now; what we are undertaking presently;  and what is envisaged for the future. These elements are profoundly apparent as we mark the 32nd Anniversary of the Massachusetts  Caribbean Week Proclamation Law.

In this 2023 attribution there is a focus on only two features in the collection of laudable personality characteristics. It is a memorial  tribute to two men whose community accomplishments were exemplary from the perspective of the writer. Both models in their  individual modes, displayed outstanding skills. One, as a proficient legislative representative – African American – and the other, as a  culture advocate – Caribbean born. All the observations were in Boston.  

William “Bill” Owens, Massachusetts legislator championed many firsts to enhance the lives of his constituents. A notable distinction of  his regard for the underrecognized is demonstrated in a factual description. Senator Owens sponsored 1991 legislation which described  people of the Caribbean as "distinguished residents of the state who have made significant contributions to life in Massachusetts." 

This astute statement is an admonition of a denigrating stereotype of Caribbeans. He, however, had observed and engaged with  individuals whose expertise and lifestyles were of a wide range. We were seen as present in a wide span of professions in many fields.  They included academic, commercial, creative, entrepreneurial, legal/judicial, philanthropic, medical, and the military sectors. Notably  these residents held positions from entry level to executive rank with some in the latter spots protectively clouding their Caribbean  heritage.  

Senate Bill 1108 proclaimed that the sitting Governor declare the last week of August be celebrated as Caribbean Week in  Massachusetts. It has the distinction of still being the only one of that stature across the nation. Senator Owens was embraced by his  Caribbean constituents.  

Caribbean American community leaders can be multifaceted and do achieve impressive goals. Paul Lewis is an exemplar who exhibited  quiet brilliance and has left a remarkable life legacy. He fostered an array of social endeavors evoking Boston Caribbean considerations  and identity. Always, however, encouraging an atmosphere of inclusiveness. It was this understanding of applying effective methods to  achieve desired objectives that indicates a telling feature. 

Mr. Lewis, an entrepreneur , was active in electoral representation as well as cultural productions and sports activities. Observing him  as a mentor one could discern how engagement with legislators brought success for Caribbean natives and all residents. He always  projected visionary management and achieved admirable results by forging consensus for action. Espousing a noble concept would be  done from his communal leadership thinking about increasing village pride. Brother Paul generally just took a seat at the table but was  always impactful with his thoughtful, practical contributions. He was a vibrant member of the Caribbean Ad-Hoc Committee that  championed the Caribbean Week legislation. His general demeanor and articulation would have impressed Senator Owens and his  legislative colleagues. 

In reminiscence of him and Senator Owens, we see them at the 10th Anniversary celebration held at the Massachusetts State House. Mr.  Lewis is at top left third row and Mr. Owens is in the front and center. Positive memories. In 2023, we are pleased to be in the fourth  decade of the Caribbean Week accord. 

Ronald H. Lammy

Caribbean Beat Magazine

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Produced since 1992 Caribbean Beat is the region’s leading magazine on Caribbean arts, culture, and society. The articles get behind the stereotype - the sun, sand, and sea - to deal with real Caribbean people and experience. It is and always has been a general-interest, pan-Caribbean publication, produced in the Caribbean by people living and working there.

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