"Pantomime" is a poetic play by Derek Walcott, first published in 1978, that explores the themes of identity, race, and colonialism through the story of two characters, Harry Trewe and Joby.
The play is set on a fictional Caribbean island called San Cristobal, which is undergoing a period of social and political unrest. Harry Trewe, a white British expatriate, represents the colonial presence on the island, while Joby, a local black man, symbolizes the oppressed native population.
Harry Trewe, a former plantation owner, is struggling to come to terms with the changing political landscape and his own identity as a white man in a black-majority country. Joby, on the other hand, is a local fisherman who is torn between his loyalty to his community and his desire for personal freedom and independence.
Through a series of pantomime-like scenes, the play delves into the complex relationship between Harry Trewe and Joby, as they confront their own prejudices, fears, and desires. The play also explores the legacy of colonialism, the effects of racism and discrimination, and the challenges of finding one's true self in a society that is grappling with issues of identity and power.
Walcott's poetic language and vivid imagery create a rich and evocative narrative that delves into the complexities of human nature and the socio-political dynamics of a post-colonial society. "Pantomime" is a thought-provoking and powerful exploration of identity and oppression, capturing the tension between individual desires and societal expectations in a changing world.
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