About The Book

"How to Say Babylon" is a gripping memoir that chronicles Safiya Sinclair's journey of breaking free from the confines of her rigid Rastafarian upbringing. Despite her father's strict adherence to patriarchal values and his intense control over her childhood, Safiya discovers her own voice as a woman and a poet. The book delves into the struggles faced by Safiya as her father's obsession with her purity and his fear of external corrupting influences, known as Babylon, lead to increasingly oppressive restrictions on her and her siblings. The memoir portrays her growing rebellion and the consequent clashes with her father, ultimately leading to a powerful confrontation. Safiya's story is not just a personal narrative but also a poignant reflection on patriarchy, tradition, and the lasting impact of colonialism in Jamaica.

Reflection Questions:

1. How does the portrayal of Safiya's upbringing under the strict Rastafarian sect shed light on the broader impact of cultural and religious rigidity on personal freedom?

2. In what ways does Safiya's relationship with her mother contrast with her relationship with her father, and how does this shape her understanding of womanhood and power?

3. How does Safiya's use of poetry as a means of expression and rebellion reflect her journey towards self-discovery and empowerment?

Key Takeaways:

- The enduring struggle of individuals to assert their own identity in the face of oppressive societal and familial constraints.

- The complex interplay between tradition, cultural values, and the quest for personal autonomy and self-expression.

- The lasting effects of colonial legacies and patriarchal structures on the lives of women within strict religious communities.

Inspirational Quote:

"In the darkness of silence, I found my voice; in the tyranny of tradition, I discovered my rebellion; in the wreckage of a rigid upbringing, I built my freedom."