UK-based Vincentian Dane Sandy has launched his first poetry collection, “Dark In DeLight”.
Sandy, was born in St. Vincent and lived on the island until age 14, when he moved to the UK.
He said his journey as a writer began “unofficially” at age 14 when he started writing poems and songs. Initially, he wrote as an outlet for handling the transition from his quiet life in the village of Dickson to the metropolis of London.
The St. Vincent Grammar School alumnus credits his teachers, including Vynnette Frederick, who helped to shape his early interest in English language and literature.
He said he continued to hone his craft, drawing inspiration from renowned poets like Audre Lorde and Benjamin Zephaniah, who tackled issues affecting his community.
Sandy said he has always been deeply connected to his roots and this connection is poignantly reflected in one of his standout poems, “No Place Like Home”, dedicated to St. Vincent.
The poem captures the essence of his deep emotional ties that bind him to his people and birthplace.
Sandy said “Dark In DeLight” represents the first of many milestones ahead in his literary career, offering readers a glimpse into his unique perspective formed by his Caribbean heritage, growing up in the UK and travelling to observe how others live globally.
He said that with this debut collection, he firmly establishes himself as a rising voice in the world of poetry, one who bridges cultures and continents with his evocative words and advocacy for shining a light on the darkness of the world, as the first step to eradicating it.
He said that fans and literary enthusiasts can expect to see more from him as his work continues to explore themes of identity, belonging, and the complex interplay of light and darkness in the human experience.
‘No Place Like Home’ by Dane Sandy
I am awake.
I’m wide awake at this moment.
Every smile, wave and greeting,
Some from faces that I do not know,
Puts fuel in a tank that I thought was full.
My soul dances to the sound of the breeze Through the trees, ancestors sing to me.
Who knew that mere moving leaves,
Could leave one feeling so at peace? Serenity, serenaded.
Divinity, celebrated.
I love my people.
No beach or resort in sight,
Just elders, kids and all in between.
Kittens, chickens and young pups.
Hours spent on a plane above seas.
But they’re the ones who have lifted me up.
I love that blue, yellow and green.
Simply beautiful. Keep up the good work.