LITERATURE

The jumbie (jumbee) is a spectral being rooted in Caribbean folklore, recognised as a mischievous or malevolent spirit that brings fear and mystery to those who encounter it. These entities are particularly prominent in the folklore of Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana, and other Caribbean nations. While their nature may vary …

The silk cotton tree, also known as Ceiba pentandra, has a mystical presence throughout the Caribbean. From Trinidad and Tobago to Jamaica and beyond, this towering tree is not just a natural marvel but also a powerful figure in regional folklore, believed to harbour spirits and ancestral memories. Known by …

Papa Bois (Bwa), also known as the “Father of the Forest”, is a legendary figure in Caribbean folklore, especially prominent in Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana, Saint Lucia, and other islands. Often depicted as a half-man, half-beast creature, Papa Bois is a protector of the natural world, guarding the forests and …

The douen, a captivating figure in Caribbean folklore, is a spirit said to haunt the forests and waterways of various islands, including Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago, and St Lucia. While the tale of the douen is prevalent throughout the Caribbean, with variations across islands, the Trinidadian interpretation offers a particularly …

The soucouyant (soo-coo-ya) is a fearsome figure in Caribbean folklore, particularly prominent in islands like Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana, Suriname, Saint Lucia, Dominica, and Haïti. This shape-shifting creature, often depicted as a reclusive old woman by day, transforms into a fiery ball at night to seek out unsuspecting victims. The …

The buck is a fascinating figure in Caribbean folklore, particularly prominent in Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago. While there are several variations of the tale across the region, the core concept remains consistent: a small, magical creature with the power to grant wealth and success to its human owner. However, …

“Despite the challenges and difficulties that come your way, try to enjoy life’s experiences. There will be ups and downs, but learning to deal with whatever is in front of you is important.” JD Morgan, author of The Silent Love, shares insights about his publication. Becoming our best selves The …

The churile, a malevolent spirit associated with pregnant women, is a prominent figure in Caribbean folklore, particularly in Trinidad and Tobago and Guyana. Rooted in the region’s history of slavery and cultural syncretism, she is often depicted as the ghost of a woman who died during childbirth. Meta smart glasses …

The La Diablesse or Ladjablès is a captivating and often fearsome figure in Caribbean folklore. Legend has it that she was once an enslaved African woman who made a Faustian bargain with Le Diable (the Devil). In exchange for eternal beauty, she surrendered her soul to the dark lord, transforming …

The Caribbean nights whisper tales of fantastical creatures, and among the most chilling is the lagahoo or lugarhoo in Trinidad and Tobago. It is known as lougarou in Dominica, loogaroo in St Lucia, and lougarou in Guyana. This shapeshifting monster haunts the folklore of many islands, with variations in its …