By: Seraphina Quinn
A voice that echoes the rhythm and soul of Jamaica rises out of the busy literary world to tell stories that elevate and enthrall readers. Let’s get to know Bentley Walcott, a master of storyteller whose first book, “Jamaica Rhapsody,” takes the readers on an enthralling trip through the rich fabric of Jamaican tradition.
Together with the universal themes of love, bravery, and resiliency, Walcott’s stories encapsulate the spirit of Jamaican history, culture, and folklore.
Simple yet fascinating, Walcott’s writing style creates a vivid and genuine voice through the use of Jamaican phrases. His stories are rich in imagery and symbolism, reflecting the complex and various aspects of life in Jamaica. Walcott frequently incorporates calypso, ska, and reggae—three Jamaican musical genres—to enhance the tone and rhythm of his writings.
Born in the rural area of Jamaica, Bentley Walcott used to be surrounded by hills and rivers, where he developed a love for storytelling and literature. He had his early schooling in Montana, a small town in the parish of Hanover. He became a technical officer in the Sugar Industry Association (SIA). The (SIA) promoted him to the College of Arts, Science, and Technology—now called the University of Technology, Jamaica—to continue his studies. He disappointed SIA by moving to the United States. Later, he was studying for his engineering degree at Monmouth College in New Jersey and they discovered him as a writer.
However, Walcott soon realized that his true passion was not in engineering, but in writing. Although he had a specific job he felt like he had disappointed his employers. So, to follow his passion for being a writer, he decided to leave Jamaica in 1982 and relocate to the US. Presently he resides in Freehold, New Jersey. He finds inspiration in the melodies of nature and the brotherhood of sports among the serene beauty of the Garden State. Being an enthusiastic fan of baseball, football, and cricket, Walcott brings the same energy and positivity to his writing as he does to the game.
The magic doesn’t stop there, though. Every story in Walcott’s collection, from the wacky adventures of “Grandpa Nightingale” to the disclosure of secrets in “The Traitor,” is a goldmine of insight and magic. In the enchanted world of ” Jamaica Rhapsody,”,” superstitions blend with reality, friendships flourish in the face of hardship, and the distinction between myth and logic is blurred. Nine stories total, each with a distinctive twist and a moral lesson found in Jamaica Rhapsody. The origin of the well-known song that commemorates finishing a long day’s work is revealed in the title story, Jamaica Rhapsody.
Bentley Walcott solidifies his role as a guardian of Jamaican legacy with ” Jamaica Rhapsody,” ensuring that its ageless wisdom is preserved for future generations. His book, which is written in the beloved oral storytelling tradition, is more than just a compilation of stories; it is a monument to the story’s eternal ability to bridge divides and bring people together. Readers will be swept up into a world where truth and mythology collide and where the warmth of Jamaica’s spirit permeates every page as they set off on this literary voyage. Come along on this incredible voyage with Bentley Walcott, and let ” Jamaica Rhapsody” make a lasting impression on your heart.
Published by: Holy Minoza
