“I no graduate, I emigrate” – a Story by Ralph Hoyte
By Ralph Hoyte, 14th July 2022
In this blog post, co-researcher Ralph Hoyte, takes us on a journey – his journey. Ralph introduces us to one of his favourite poems, ‘Listen Mr. Oxford Don’ by John Agard, who coined the line, “I no graduate, I immigrate”.
Ralph’s own story is not, however, one if immigration to the UK, but of emigration to Jamaica. Ralph describes his early years in Manchester, before describing his experience of arriving in Jamaica as a young boy. We hear tales of his family heritage, misadventures in young love, the locals’ perception of him, and the ever lasting impression that his time in Jamaica left upon him.
Find the audio player below.