THE ROAD OF

THE DREAD
Lorna Goodison
Treatment of the subject
◦ The title “ROAD OF THE DREAD” in literal means a road that people may not always want to take as it may lead to despair.
The fear factor that is associated with this road immense and as a result it drives people away.
◦ The title figuratively represents the road that is associated with colonization, slavery, enslavement, oppression and segregation.
Hence, it symbolically represents the period in history that is often viewed as ghastly.
Importance of symbols used
◦ The poem itself- the poem is a symbol for life and the experience of Caribbean people namely oppression, segregation etc.
◦ Road- the road appears to convey a ton of significance for the storyteller. It is portrayed as a disagreeable course. “it has no
positive tone/and it fence two side with live barbwire”. This suggests segregation on both sides; blacks and whites, it also
implies the possibility of death if anyone dares cross over. “and no look fi no milepost” this means or in other words grand
recognition to signify your achievements in life that would measure your journey whether it is worth continuing or not.
References to Caribbean life/culture
◦ This poem is written using a mixture of creole and standard English and this is significant as it speaks to the Caribbean
experience. One that had to endure slavery, colonization and deprivation. As a result of slaver there was segregation and so we
know that Lorna in this poem was speaking mainly to the black/mulatto woman who had to endure much.
Goodison’s concern
◦ In this poem she explores the journey of the black or mulatto woman who has to endure much hardship as a result of her
colour or lack of identity (no definite colour). The woman who is neither black or white but based on societal restrictions has
to take a side or position. She cautions women against those who may take advantage of them “the dead men who will tease yu
with his possessions”. This speaks to the men in society who are older but take advantage of young ladies seeking to make a
life foe themselves. She cautions women to be strong and determined and to continue amidst life’s difficulties as there is light
at the end of the tunnel and the journey will be worthwhile when you find a companion who will lighten your load.
Major theme
◦ Themes explored in this poem are:
◦ Racism
◦ Segregation
◦ Appearance vs Reality
◦ Slavery
◦ Death
◦ Compatibility
◦ Life’s Journey