Poetry Unbound

Roger Robinson — A Portable Paradise

9 snips
Nov 2, 2020
Roger Robinson, a talented writer and performer from Trinidad and London, dives deep into the concept of 'paradise' in his poetry. He reflects on the wisdom passed down from his grandmother about holding onto hope and beauty amidst life's challenges. The discussion reveals how personal and collective experiences shape our inner sanctuaries. Robinson's work highlights resilience and the power of memory, urging listeners to embrace their own 'A Portable Paradise' while navigating a complex world.
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INSIGHT

Paradise Defined

  • The word "paradise" originates from Avestan, meaning "enclosed garden."
  • Robinson's poem focuses on a present paradise, found in personal objects and sensations.
INSIGHT

Stolen Paradise

  • Robinson's poem presents paradise as something precious that can be stolen.
  • This highlights the threat of systemic racism and classism.
INSIGHT

Shifting Pronouns

  • The poem's shift in pronouns, from "I" and "me" to "you," emphasizes the universality of the threat to paradise.
  • This shift occurs at the pivotal line, "That way they can't steal it, she'd say."
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