A country’s evolution can be traced in documentaries, novels, short stories, movies, essays, poems, articles, and much more. Here is a beautiful poem written by Guyanese born author Patrick Carpen summarizing Guyana’s evolution from the arrival of Europeans to present day (2024).
Guyana’s Journey
Beneath summer skies where rivers flow, Where emerald forests and savannahs grow, The land of many waters once stood still, As European sails appeared on the hill.
They came in search of gold and trade, But left behind a different shade. Chains were forged, and fields were sown, As slaves were brought from lands unknown.
The sugar canes danced in the wind's fierce song, As men and women endured the throngs. From Africa’s shores, they were brought in chains, To toil in the heat and bear the strain.
As the world grew, the chains broke, And new burdens fell with an iron yoke. Indentured labor came to replace, From India, China, they filled the space.
From the heat of the fields, they, too, would fight, For upliftment, for justice, for a new light. Centuries passed, and the winds of change, Brought hope anew to this land so strange.
Independence dawned in '66, With courage found, Guyana stood amidst The struggle for self, for truth, for voice, A nation free to make its choice.
And now beneath the same skies so vast, Where rivers and forests still hold fast, The black gold flows from the ocean floor, A new wealth whispers, promises more.
With oil discovered, hopes arise, Yet caution lingers in many eyes. For though riches may come from the deep blue sea, The heart of this land must stay wild and free.
Guyana's story was woven through joy and pain, Enriched by triumph, endurance, and torrential rain. And from her soil and seas, the future gleams, A land reborn with endless dreams.
May the future be bright, the people strong, May justice and equity guide the song. For Guyana’s heart beats fierce and true, A beacon of hope where the skies are blue.
Poem Copyright by Guyana, South America. All rights reserved.
