Introduction
Jamaican Proverbs, People and Places captures over 500 adages used in
Jamaica to communicate ideas about human nature, behaviour,
relationships, aspirations, health, hope and survival. They convey important
messages and are often used to instil discipline in children and contextualise situations for the unwitting adult ‐ timeless, succinct, often funny phrases containing cultural symbolism that can be interpreted in various ways.
The adages represent an archive of the wit and wisdom of many
generations and aim to trigger reflection and thought. In their use they are
never really explained but those to whom they are directed usually
understand their meaning based on the context in which they are used.
They utilize imagery and draw upon a variety of flora and fauna to enrich
their content. They hold valuable lessons, inspiration and wisdom that link
Jamaican culture to its African past.
The ability to understand the proverbs depends on the reader’s
familiarity with Jamaican life. Second and third generations of Jamaicans
living in foreign countries may struggle to understand them in their natural
state. Indeed Jamaican children at home and abroad are losing their selfawareness and sense of pride as their exposure to other cultures become more significant.
Although a concerted attempt has been made to render the most
familiar interpretation of the proverbs, some readers will be aware of other
usages and meanings based on their personal recollections and experience.
In Jamaican Proverb, People and Places each proverb is presented in three
parts:
• The actual proverb in its original form
• The literal English translation
• The meaning it endeavours to convey.
Although every attempt is made to include only those proverbs that are
uniquely Jamaican, there are several which are popular not only in Jamaica
but also in other countries. Their inclusion in this collection is deliberate
because they occupy a significant place in Jamaican culture. There are also
some proverbs that have an established English equivalence and where
known these are added for comparison and to promote clarity.
There are some proverbs that can be applied in more than one context and whereapplicable, two meanings are presented.
Part II of the book contains a number of sayings – unique expressions
used by Jamaicans to communicate, highlight and dramatise information.
They demonstrate the creativity and humour of our people.
Part III will bring cheer to Jamaicans who will undoubtedly reminisce on
their early days in Jamaica. Apart from singing the folk songs at school the
songs were performed at many social gatherings and performances. They
never fail to generate laughter and a sense of togetherness.
Part IV presents an insight into Jamaica – places, the people, their
achievements, heroes, symbols, folklore, food, fauna and flora. For a tiny
island nation we have had either by birth or ancestry a disproportionate number of high achievers and outstanding individuals making significant contributions both locally and globally.
Many of us are unaware of our triumphs and successes; this
section lists a few of the people who have made Jamaica proud.
The book is also useful to visitors to the island with information about
the country, what it has to offer and available hotel accommodation. This
section of the publication aims to engender a sense of pride in Jamaicans at
home and abroad.
The text contains a number of images depicting Jamaican beauty spots,
recent developments in the country and things Jamaican. Readers not
resident on the island should enjoy the glossary which presents a small
collection of Jamaican terminology and their English equivalence.
Jamaican Proverbs, People and Places aims to renew and reinvigorate
Jamaican wisdom through proverbs and sayings, display the excellent
contributions Jamaicans are making and showcase developments in the
island for the benefit of those who have not visited in recent years. It will
engender a sense of pride among all Jamaicans and evoke a feeling of
nostalgia, encouraging Jamaicans, particularly those living overseas, to
acknowledge and embrace their heritage and reconnect with their culture