Photographed by Susan Koster
With blazing clarity
His eyes, they take you somewhere
Wide awake dreaminess
Compelled to watch him
He created many roles
Reminiscent of Tharp Classics
He choreographed my part
In unorthodox venues
We dance
The composure
In Seasons
Our movement a language
-
Poem by Brenda L. McCartney
“I celebrate your becoming. I look forward to the rest of our lives with hope and marvel at the possibilities.” Happy Birthday Enrique!
Photographed by Ashley Tuitt
There are many stories and controversies that surround silk cotton trees. I have seen some gigantic pictures; ones which make this one dwarf in comparison but to me the tree in this picture is an historic symbol to the people of Montserrat.
The silk cotton tree is a native of South America the Bombax ceiba. The giant branches are worn like a crown that can spread to one hundred and twenty feet in diameter and is supported by the Buttress-like roots that brace the tree. It can take up to 60 to 70 years before it reaches maturity.
The tree in the photograph is a tree in the village of Cudjoe Head. Cudjoe Head was named after the 18th century slave, Cudjoe, who ran away from his master and was caught and beheaded. His head was placed on this silk cotton tree as a reminder to other slaves who were considering the valiant run to freedom.
This tree has tremendous significance to many people for many different reasons. For me I recall that when ever we had exams and we finished earlier than when the school bus was expected we would walk home. We often sat on the wall under the silk cotton tree as a shelter from the sun and to rest before we journeyed on to our respective villages.
Cudjoe Head Day celebrations began in 1989; the first Saturday in August. It is used as an avenue for Montserratians to highlight their African roots and the impact it has on its culture as a way to unify the residents of Cudjoe Head and the remaining residents in Montserrat.
© 2011 McCartney House
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