2/09/2023

Song of the Banana Man by Evan Jones

A friend shared with me this delightful reading by George Scott of the poem, Song of the Banana Man, written by Jamaicn poet, Evan Jones. Mr. Scott, an educator, grew up in Jamaica and later moved with his family to Hartford, Connecticut, where he started a small business.

This poem brings back many memories from my primary school days in Jamaica where it was recited a lot in schools. Set in rural Jamaica in the 1940s, Song of the Banana man captures the psyche and ethos of small farmers - hardworking, salt of the earth people who look you in the eye,  tell you good morning and howdy, and will die with their dignity. Not waiting for any handouts, but proudly  toiling day in day out. I hope you enjoy the reading.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TEOvGM-UONY