Sir Derek Walcott Memorial Lecture Presented by the CDF

The Cultural Development Foundation (CDF) of St. Lucia is poised to host the 2025 Sir Derek Walcott Memorial Lecture, an annual event commemorating the life and literary contributions of the Nobel Laureate and St. Lucian national icon. This year’s lecture, titled “Portrait of the Prodigal in Autumn,” will be delivered by the distinguished poet and lecturer, Ishion Hutchinson, on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, at the Finance Administrative Centre in Seraphine, commencing at 7:30 PM. The lecture promises a deep dive into the thematic resonance of autumn within Walcott’s oeuvre, exploring its symbolic weight and connection to the poet’s complex relationship with his Caribbean heritage.

Ishion Hutchinson, an internationally acclaimed poet, brings a unique perspective to the interpretation of Walcott’s work. His own poetry is celebrated for its lyrical richness and exploration of cultural and historical narratives, resonating with Walcott’s own thematic concerns. Hutchinson’s deep admiration for Walcott’s influence on both Caribbean and global literature forms the foundation of his engagement with the laureate’s legacy. This lecture, therefore, represents not just an academic analysis but a personal homage to a literary giant.

The lecture’s central focus, “Portrait of the Prodigal in Autumn,” highlights the recurring motif of autumn in Walcott’s poetry. Hutchinson will explore how this season, laden with symbolism of decline, change, and reflection, embodies Walcott’s feelings of both connection and detachment from his cultural landscape. Autumn, in this context, becomes more than just a seasonal marker; it transforms into a metaphor for the complexities of human experience, encompassing themes of grief, loss, and the cyclical nature of life. Hutchinson will unravel the layers of meaning embedded within this recurring motif, demonstrating its evolving significance throughout Walcott’s poetic journey.

Hutchinson’s approach will intertwine close critical readings of Walcott’s poems with personal anecdotes, offering a rare glimpse into his own interactions with Walcott, both in St. Lucia and abroad. This blend of scholarly analysis and personal reminiscence promises to create a uniquely intimate and insightful portrait of Walcott’s creative process and the driving forces behind his artistic vision. The audience can anticipate a nuanced understanding of how Walcott utilized the imagery of autumn to explore the multifaceted nature of human emotion and the ever-shifting landscape of memory and belonging.

The Sir Derek Walcott Memorial Lecture stands as a cornerstone of the CDF’s cultural programming, reflecting the organization’s commitment to preserving and celebrating Walcott’s enduring legacy. The annual event serves as a platform for engaging with Walcott’s work in new and insightful ways, fostering a deeper appreciation for his contributions to literature and the arts. By inviting prominent literary figures like Ishion Hutchinson, the CDF ensures that Walcott’s voice continues to resonate with audiences, inspiring future generations of writers and artists.

The CDF extends an open invitation to the public to attend this year’s lecture, emphasizing the free admission. This gesture underscores the importance of making Walcott’s work accessible to all, furthering the CDF’s mission of promoting cultural enrichment within the community. The 2025 Sir Derek Walcott Memorial Lecture promises to be a memorable evening of literary exploration and reflection, honoring the enduring impact of one of the Caribbean’s most celebrated literary voices. It’s an opportunity to delve into the rich tapestry of Walcott’s poetic world, guided by the insightful interpretations of a fellow poet who deeply understands and appreciates the power of his words.