Sylvia Wynter's Dream

By Javeir Henry | Blog Post #5

Growing up in Jamaica, Christmas held a special place in my heart, with Grandmarket being a cherished highlight. This enchanting event often unfolds annually on Christmas Eve, where families adorn themselves in their finest attire, eagerly anticipating a night of festivities and shopping. Grandmarket is considered a bustling haven for last-minute purchases of gifts and essentials for family, friends, children, and their other loved ones. The rush from being in the crowd creates a jolting excitement for everyone, especially children.

The vibrant atmosphere was electrifying, especially for children who reveled in the excitement. Their laughter echoed as they ran through the crowd, faces adorned with paint, smiles as radiant as the morning sun, and innocent chipped-tooth grins that added to their charm. The infectious energy of the captivating Christmas songs often coursed through my veins, filling me with a sense of joy and liveliness. The chaotic yet beautiful scene unfolded as children darted around, their illuminated shoes mirroring the glow of Christmas lights, innocent eyes gleaming with carefree delight. Strolling past vendor stalls, my senses were treated to a symphony of aromas from traditional holiday foods. The tantalizing scents of Christmas cake, sorrel, and jerked chicken wafted through the air, creating a sensory dance that filled me with anticipation.

The vendor stalls were a visual feast, with a mixture of colours and festive offerings that made my eyes widen in excitement at the array of dolls, kitchen sets, clothing, Santa hats, ‘light up swords,’ and firecrackers on display. Enthusiastically tugging at my mother’s arm, I couldn’t help but express my desire for each delightful find. I was not alone in my fervor; other children pointed eagerly at their preferred toys, their tiny fingers indicating their wishes. However, amidst the joyous atmosphere, some children found themselves on the floor with tear-stained cheeks whenever they were not given the toys that they desired. As a result, some of them were taken home and others were scolded by their parents.

As a child, ‘Santa Claus’ instilled a sense of fear in me, a sentiment shared by other children who screamed and cried when placed on the lap of someone dressed in a Santa disguise adorned with a silly hat, a rotund stomach, and a flowing white beard. The loudness of these cries, coupled with the burst of firecrackers, created a symphony that, despite its loudness, strangely brought a sense of relaxation, making the Grandmarket experience truly unforgettable. Overall, these experiences, both good and bad, shaped a memorable Christmas experience for me as a child and contributed to the bittersweet memories that I have experienced over the years which fuelled my love for this season of festivities.