Selected Publications
Metropolitan Blues. (Domestic Bliss, 1983).
Selected Anthologies
CaribAnthology. (Carifesta, Barbados, 1983).
In the Teeth of the Whirlwind. (Dixon Hall, 1984).
Sad Dances in a Field of White: Poetry by and about Blacks in Canada.
(Is Five Press, 1985).
Poetic Tributes to Walter Rodney. (Bogle L'Overture, 1986).
Poet in the School
(Toronto)
phone: 416-256-5648
Working both individually and with fellow dub poets Lillian Allen and Devon Haughton, Clifton Joseph has been performing his poetry at clubs, universities, political and community events throughout Canada, and has appeared at international book fairs in London, England. Presently, he is co-producer and presenter on TVO's book and publishing talk-show, Imprint. His poetry has its roots in the African/Black oral tradition, infused with reggae and other rhythms. It appears in recorded and printed form, including the album De Dub Poets (VersetoVinyl, 1983), and the book Metropolitan Blues.
Grade Levels: 9 - OAC
Fees: standard
Classroom Approach:
Students
need not be familiar with Joseph's work prior to the visit. He will conduct
readings and/or workshops, depending on the teacher's requirements. Usually,
he starts by discussing the components of poetry styles, moving on to the history
and evolution of dub poetry and the 20th century interpretation of it. In workshops,
he guides students from initial thought to final realization in the form of
a poem. His performance-readings are particularly effective with students who
are otherwise reticent about poetry.