Caribbean mourns death of literary Giant: Edward Baugh

Rashaed Esson

Staff Writer 

#Jamaica, December 15, 2023 – Edward Alston Cecil Baugh, Caribbean literary giant, sadly passed away on Sunday December 10th, 2023, leaving behind a rich legacy in the literary world.

Baugh, born on January 10th, 1936 in Port Antonio Jamaica, which made him 87 years old, lived a successful life not only as a renowned Jamaican poet and scholar, but also as a Professor at the University of the West Indies (UWI), teaching at The Cave Hill campus first, then at the Mona campus.

He is regionally recognized for work on pieces by Derek Walcott, who was a Saint Lucian poet and playwright.  Baugh edited Walcott’s Selected Poems (2007).

Additionally, his other notable works include West Indian Poetry 1900-1970: A Study in Cultural Decolonization 1971; Derek Walcott: Memory as Vision (1978).

Commenting on his passing, Professor emeritus Dr. Norval Edwards, described Baugh as an “intellectual giant”, reports say, adding that his passing is an “immense loss,” for the wider Caribbean.

“Jamaica and the wider Caribbean have lost an intellectual giant, an erudite and brilliant scholar, an exemplary teacher, and anyone who has been taught by him would have been touched and inspired by his brilliance. He transmitted a love for the subject,” Norval said.

The Honourable Andrew Holness, prime minister of Jamaica on Facebook, briefly gave remarks regarding Baugh passing.

Holness spoke of the poet’s exceptional work in literature.

“Professor Edward Baugh’s impact on Jamaican literature and his insightful contributions to postcolonial Caribbean poetry have left an enduring mark on our cultural heritage. As a nation, we were blessed and privileged to have witnessed the immense talent of Prof Baugh. I express my deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of our revered poet, orator, biographer, and prominent scholar in postcolonial Caribbean poetry,” said Holness.

“May the enduring legacy of his literary contributions and profound insights offer solace during these challenging times, and may his soul find eternal peace,” Holness added.