Unveiling Jamaican History: A Fictitious Tale of Colourism and Injustice

In a world where literature often takes a backseat to social media and digital content, it is refreshing to stumble upon a book that not only tells a captivating story but also sheds light on an important aspect of Jamaica's history. "Wasps" is a recently published novel that explores the phenomenon of colourism among other themes and brings awareness to the injustices that occurred during the post-colonial period in Jamaica, specifically in the 1920s. This fictitious tale, penned by Edroy Whittingham, takes readers on a journey through the lives of its characters, addressing societal prejudices and their lasting impact.

The Author's Background

Edroy B Whittingham , a seasoned professional with experience working with renowned companies such as Amazon and Dior, hails from Jamaica. Having spent most of his childhood and schooling in Jamaica, Whittingham pursued his university studies in France, where he also gained professional experience. His understanding of the French education system and his unique perspective on Jamaican history inspired him to collaborate with his mother in writing "Wasps." Whittingham took a year off from his professional pursuits to dedicate himself to the book, ensuring that the story would resonate with readers and provide an authentic portrayal of the historical context.

Uncovering Jamaica's Ugly Past

Jamaica, like many Caribbean islands, has a complex history shaped by the effects of colonization and the mixing of different racial and ethnic groups. Colourism, a form of discrimination based on skin colour, is a prevalent issue that has persisted through generations. "Wasps" delves into this sensitive topic, centring its narrative around colourism and various injustices during the 1920s post-colonial period.

The initial manuscript, written by Whittingham's mother in 2016, captured his attention, as he saw it as an opportunity to explore an aspect of Jamaican culture that demanded attention. The original manuscript, though poignant, contained aspects that Whittingham found problematic. He aimed to make the story more palatable and sensitive to the historical context by fictionalizing certain elements.

The Power of Fiction in Addressing Deep-seated Prejudices

One of the challenges faced by Whittingham and his mother was striking a balance between acknowledging the pejorative aspects of slavery's impact and portraying the positive results of Jamaican history. Whittingham's global perspective, shaped by his experiences in Europe, contributed to his decision to make the story more approachable and less divisive. Whittingham acknowledges the importance of understanding history, even if it is conveyed through fictional narratives, as a means of fostering positive change and challenging deeply ingrained prejudices.

Relatability Amidst Fictitious Storytelling

The decision to fictionalize the story allowed Whittingham to create relatable characters and scenarios that readers from various backgrounds could identify with. The setting of the novel in western Westmoreland, with its cultural richness and nuances, holds similarities to other regions in Jamaica. Through this fictitious lens, Whittingham aimed to protect himself, his mother, and the integrity of the story, while also allowing readers to recognize elements of truth within the narrative. By incorporating authentic cultural elements, such as the mention of hurricanes and coconut brushes, "Wasps" captures the essence of Jamaica's heritage and evokes a sense of nostalgia for readers.

The Importance of Telling History Responsibly

While Whittingham recognizes that Jamaican history, like that of many other countries, is filled with problematic events and prejudices, he emphasizes that storytelling is not about passing judgment or expressing personal opinions. Instead, it aims to capture and recount important historical moments. By shedding light on historical events and their impact, "Wasps" serves as a catalyst for discussions surrounding racial prejudice and societal issues that persist today.

A Modern Perspective on Historical Themes

Whittingham's novel reflects the struggles and triumphs experienced by characters who believed they were superior due to their lighter complexion. This sentiment mirrors the societal structure during Jamaica's period under British rule, where individuals from different racial backgrounds coexisted but were divided along colour lines. By exploring these themes through the story, Whittingham underscores the need for society to critically examine its history, understand its roots, and seek positive change in the present. Through "Wasps" Whittingham hopes to inspire a reflection on the past and encourage proactive change. He acknowledges that history cannot be denied or altered, but by examining the past, societies can strive to overcome prejudices and create a more inclusive future. This message holds true, not only for Jamaican society but also for other countries and regions, where similar histories of racial complexity exist.

Conclusion

"Wasps" offers readers an opportunity to explore Jamaica's history through the lens of a captivating fictitious tale. Edroy Whittingham's collaboration with his mother presents an insightful examination of colourism, racial prejudice, and societal challenges. By combining authentic cultural elements with relatable characters, Whittingham aims to spark important conversations and encourage society to confront its past to pave the way for a more harmonious future. "Wasps" stands as a testament to the power of literature in shedding light on historical injustices and fostering positive change.

Wasps is available now for purchase on Amazon.com. Also, connect with the author to get new release updates, plus improved recommendations here.