The Verandah Post
A literary newsletter for Caribbean feminist readers — seasonal, essayistic, and unafraid to take a position.
Black Joy - An Essay by Theophina Gabriel on the culinary mapping and seasoning of joyful memories through souse
“My essay uncovering the history and festivity around the dish from my mother’s eyes explores not just the celebratory joy it holds, but also the delicate ways of seasonal food preparation and preservation that are becoming increasingly lost to the diaspora”
Midnight Robber by Nalo Hopkinson Review by Aisha Oni
This review of Nalo Hopkinson’s Midnight Robber examines some of the key ways in which this novel has stolen our hearts and remains relevant in its weavings more than 20 years after publication.
A nation of Queers and their Pride Flag - Discussion Essay by Reiya Lawrence
Reiya shares her thoughts on the Pride flag flying high in Jamaica. Are we allowed the tiniest sliver of hope that relevant pieces of legislation will be amended and the effect that could play on less progressive and discriminatory behaviour?
Breaking Water by Solare - Poetry
This week, we walk with the poet’s subject as she navigates the emotions immediately following an abortion. As best as she tries to release her load, her thoughts pull her down to the shadows.
Energy and the by-products of creativity by Richard Nattoo - Discussion Essay
This week’s discussion essay by visual artist Richard Nattoo dives deep into the shadows to resurface as whole—tapping into the dark and light, honouring all energies for an authentic rendering on the literal and figurative canvases with which we work. His image—An extract from Teeth Grid I—draws you visually into this conversation.