University of Hunger: Collected Poems and Selected Prose

by Carter Carter

The Guyanese poet Martin Carter (1927-97) was one of the foremost Caribbean writers of the 20th century and is considered a father figure of modern Caribbean poetry. Twice imprisoned by the colonial government of British Guiana in the 1950s, he became a minister in Guyana's first independent government during the 60s, representing his country at the United Nations. Disillusioned after three years, he resigned to live "simply as a poet, remaining with the people." Wise, angry, and hopeful, Carter's poetry voices a life lived in times of crisis. This helpfully annotated collection is the first of its kind and includes key essays on race, colonialism, political action and the role of the poet in a postcolonial society.

Genres: Poetry

320 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 2006

Reviews

[Janine Mendes-franco]

I savour this collection by this late Guyanese poet like I would rare chocolate. I have to taste a little at a time; it's just too beautiful, too intense and sometimes, too raw. Brilliant - a Caribbean sensibility with a global view.

[for-much-deliberation ...]

I always enjoy Carter's work. Truely great Caribbean poet!