Description
This debut poetry collection is a stirring response to the pressing issue of climate change, crafted with profound insight and emotion. With skillful use of language, and vivid imagery and metaphor, Masamaka invites readers to contemplate the intricacies of our shared humanity, from the most profound to the most mundane. His writing is both raw and refined, capturing the essence of sentiments we all experience in our own unique way. With this collection, Masamaka weaves a narrative exploring the human experience and forges a sensitive outline of the changed world we are beginning to navigate. As one delves into the pages of Under the Tattered Roof, one is struck by the depth of insight and empathy on display. Masamaka’s words have a way of touching the soul and leaving an indelible impression on the reader. — LAKSHMI KANCHI
Jerome Masamaka is a Ghanaian poet and academic who now lives and writes in Perth, Western Australia. He holds a PhD in English and Creative Writing. The two broad themes of his poetry are neocolonial Black experiences and contemporary ecological problems. He devotes this collection, Under the Tattered Roof, to the climate crisis which he presents as “the scab of an ancient wound” now blown open. Masamaka taught Classical, African, and Postcolonial literatures at the University of Ghana. He is the recipient of a 2022 Centre for Stories / Red River award, in Perth, which sponsors the publication of this collection.
About Green Leaves / Red River
Green Leaves / Red River is a collaboration between Centre for Stories and Red River. The project supports eight poets from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds to publish their first book of poetry. The project also provides editorial fellowships to emerging editors. It has been made possible with funding from the West Australian Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries.
The series is a collaboration that connects people from different cities with different histories and different experiences, all towards creating a poetic culture that is distinct and unique. With a focus on artistic excellence, Green Leaves / Red River nurtures new voices and supports poets no matter their place in the world. It is a way to share opportunities, to think in an original way, and to continue making poetry visible and valued.
We are proud of the work we can do based here in New Delhi and Perth, and acknowledge the traditional owners of both places. Thanks to the readers and dedicated to all the poets out there, Green Leaves / Red River will entertain, intrigue and enlighten you.