Get Down Ye Angels 
Get down ye angels from the heights.
Try a few of earth’s numinous delights:
the orgiastic rustlings of the grass.
The wind’s brazen feather tickling your arse.
Exchange your robe, even for a day
with the raiment of one made of clay.
Lay down your harp and dig these pipes I play
I’ll put my lips to the weeping reeds
till temptation thrills the heart of every hill
and the very stones begin the dance of leaves
as if stones had gained a fluttering will.
Welcome ye cherubs to the carnal hubbub.
Take a break from heaven’s eternal montone.
Inhabit the splendid risk of flesh and bone.
– John Agard
Guyana celebrated nationhood on Republic Day, February 23, last week. Such an anniversary always invites critical review of the state of the nation, and its political, social and cultural achievements since assuming that postcolonial status. A look at the national poetry is a significant part of that review, considering the place of poetry in cultural sovereignty and its role in defining the nation.
