Antiguan and Barbudan poetry lovers will have an opportunity to hear Cumberbatch read from his critically acclaimed collection of mostly poems and monologues inspired by Caribbean life. Cumberbatch is well respected throughout the region for his stagecraft so it comes as no surprise that most of the pieces in the book, if not all, play out on the pages, transporting the reader to places, may it be the ash covered streets of Plymouth, the mind of one of his manic characters or witness the breaking of a heart; all to a metered rhythm and theatrical effect. But he is at his best when he speaks of matters of the heart.
YaYa Surfeit’ has been described by retired UWI professor, Sir Howard A. Fergus as ‘skilfully crafted and nuanced. They (poems) pulse with the muscular rhythm of the Caribbean as he mines metaphors from the Caribbean life and his punning is delightfully engaging.’
The volume has been thoroughly enjoyed by those lucky enough to have read a preview and much praise has been given for the production of the book from its beautiful cover to the flow of the contents.
Cumberbatch is perhaps better known in Antigua for his acting especially in the HAMA production ‘No Seed’ where he portrayed an eccentric street preacher
In 2007 he was awarded an OBE for his contribution to arts. He has also won awards for his fashion and costume designs.
‘YaYa Surfeit’ will be available for purchase from the Best of Books.
