Guyanese writer shortlisted for the 2019 Commonwealth Short Story Prize

THE Commonwealth Short Story Prize is arguably one of the most well-known short story prizes in the world. After all, its reach does extend to every nation that makes up the Commonwealth. Therefore, the fact that 24-year-old Guyanese writer, Kevin Garbaran, has been shortlisted for the prize this year is something that should be celebrated by all Guyanese. His place on the shortlist, along with 21 other writers from around the globe, is a massive achievement and one to which the reading public should pay keen attention.

Garbaran was shortlisted for his story, “The Ole Higue of Market Street.” The tale is of a young girl named Devika, who is growing up in a village on the Essequibo Coast (where Garbaran is also from), where she eventually becomes intrigued by the old woman who is perceived to be an ole higue. Garbaran’s story is metaphorical, with the ole higue standing in as a representation of violence in Guyanese society, particularly domestic violence. The story also addresses themes of growing up and aging and the passing on of stories and traditions. The writer has said that his own knowledge of Guyanese folklore comes from the community in which he grew up, where stories flowed, particularly from his aunts and uncles and his schoolmates.

Garbaran has said that securing a place on the shortlist for the Commonwealth Short Story Prize took a long time to sink in, because he initially entered the competition to gain experience and to validate himself and his writing. In his own words: “I wanted to make sure that I was good.” The writer says that the response so far has been overwhelming, particularly from the Guyanese public on social media. He believes that this support , coupled with his place on the shortlist, has enabled him to see that, even though he may not be able to make a living off of writing right now, it can still be regarded as a serious endeavour, something out of which he can make a future out . Garbaran has a Degree in Environmental Science, but he does intend to prioritise his writing, despite his love for writing in the future.

Kevin Garbaran, Shortlisted for the 2019 Commonwealth Short Story Prize

He has also said that he is immensely proud to be able to represent Guyana on such an international level and despite all the attention, he does not feel much pressure, because his writing process is one that does not rely on pressure. His process involves a single idea that he allows to develop in his mind for a month or two, then he starts writing down a few scenes. He then creates a basic plot structure before sitting down to complete the writing. He also pointed out that the greater part of the story comes together in the moments when he is actually involved in writing. Garbaran knows that there are some elements within the Guyanese society that are necessary for anyone to have a truly successful literary career, and he also acknowledges that while a publishing house in Guyana might be too much to ask for, he is also aware that some incentive, created by the government or NGOs to support writers. He pointed out that he was once part of a writing group that had difficulties finding a space to meet, and if such small accommodations can be made in support of writers, then even that would be a welcome step forward.

Arundhati Roy and Emily Bronte are some of the writers who inspire Garbaran. He also highlighted talented young writers in Guyana, all of whom have stories to tell – writers who he believes will lead to the renaissance of Guyanese writing in the coming years. When asked why he wanted to become a writer, Garbaran had this to say:
“I write because it’s something I feel I have to do. Because I have something to say. And if people are willing to listen, then I have to say it. From a young age, I have always liked to come up with stories, create characters, etc. Reading and books have enriched my life and I want to have that effect on someone else’s life. For me, this is the best reason to write.”

Garbaran’s achievement is significant, because it emphasises the fact that there are talented writers in Guyana. The fact that he has managed to beat out about 5,000 other writers for a spot on this shortlist is a testament to the often-ignored prowess and marketability of Guyanese writing. If local avenues such as the Department of Culture refuse to see this as another notch in a long line of recent, independent developments in Guyanese literature, then they will continue to be regarded as a dead arm of the government that does nothing to facilitate writing in Guyana. Congratulations to Mr. Garbaran, and I hope that he is only one of many Guyanese writers who will be shortlisted for this prize.

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