Local writers confront pain, celebrate caribbean identity in literary works

As part of the Guyana Literature Prize Festival 2025, a vibrant programme of events—including poetry masterclasses and reading sessions by prize-winners—was held at the Castellani House compound in Georgetown.

On Saturday, Kenneth Puddicombe, one of the winners, attended a session where he read from and discussed the theme of his award-winning play, The Last Straw.

The piece is set in the heart of Georgetown in 1991 and explores domestic turmoil, delving into the harrowing realities of an abusive relationship as witnessed by the protagonist. The narrative centres on a housewife bearing the visible scars of her suffering, encapsulating the silent struggles endured behind closed doors.

To the viewer’s dismay, however, the conflict is public, as onlookers observe the couple’s quarrel. Puddicombe’s compelling storytelling earned him the Best Drama award, highlighting the play’s profound impact on audiences.

In the realm of fiction, Berkley Wendell Semple’s Kipling Plass secured third place in the Fiction category. Born in Mahaicony and having migrated to the United States at 13 years old, Semple channels his deep-rooted connection to Guyana into his writing.

The novel portrays a young man’s journey through a tumultuous family dynamic, grappling with childhood traumas and the complexities of identity. Set against the backdrop of 1980s Guyana, the story is a heartfelt exploration of resilience and self-discovery.

In the Poetry category, Jamal Gavin La Rose’s Harvest of Gilead stands out as a profound collection composed over several years. La Rose intertwines historical events from Guyana and the broader world, juxtaposing them with contemporary themes. He said his intent is to invite readers to derive personal meaning from his work.

“I say my task as a poet is to put my mind into the truths within my reality, the beauty and significance of which is for you to decide based on your reality,” he said.

Emerging poet Jamella Chesney earned a joint third place with La Rose for her piece Mama Said No Back Chat, which delves into the lived experiences of girls in Caribbean households. Drawing inspiration from Jamaica Kincaid’s Girl, Chesney’s piece reflects on the cultural expectations placed upon young girls, touching on themes of obedience, propriety, and societal roles.

In the Drama category, Darren McAlmont’s Ol House Pon Ol House presents a narrative based on the Guyanese saying about moving from one challenging situation to another, equally bad or worse. The play addresses complex themes such as racism, domestic violence, betrayal, sexuality, and invisible disabilities, shedding light on the multifaceted nature of human experiences.

These performances and readings at the Castellani House compound revealed a rich tapestry of Guyanese creativity and storytelling that confronts pain, celebrates identity, and challenges readers to find their own meaning in each piece.