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France 24

Olivia SALAZAR-WINSPEAR

"How to say Babylon": Safiya Sinclair’s memories of a Rastafari childhood

Safiya Sinclair Jamaica

arts24 © FRANCE 24

Jamaica’s beaches, gentle Rastas and uplifting reggae music make up the postcard version of an idyllic island nation – an image Safiya Sinclair says she wanted to flesh out in her compelling memoir "How to Say Babylon". The author recounts a childhood spent observing tropical fauna and flora and reading poetry, far from tourist hotels and the bustling street life of the Jamaican capital. She joins us to discuss the double standard for Rastafari boys and girls, the symbolic meaning of cutting off her dreadlocks and the hidden literary talents of a mother who inspired her personal and professional journey.

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