A robust insight into Jamaica’s history

Vantage Point Jamaica - A Reporter’s Chronicle

A book review by Herbie Miller

Among the cardinal members of the elite class of journalists, Earl Moxam is one of the most discerning. A sense of patriotism is evident in his work; however, his scope of reasoning seems devoid of romanticism, sentimentalism, or partisan dogmas. Those impacted by his unmistakable vocal essays objectively commenting on topical or historic events anticipated the coming of Vantage Point Jamaica - A Reporter’s Chronicle, Moxam’s recently published book.

The author approaches considerable topics with clarity, curiosity, and insight, befitting a learned jurist cutting to the issue with acute transparency and objectivity but with humour, empathy, and malice towards none. Late Prime Minister Michael Manley was professionally interrogated by the author, who tempered his probe with sensitivity, admiration, and impartiality for a man whose political leadership was as controversial as the value of his legacies for many Jamaicans.

DILIGENTLY APPROACHES

Moxam diligently approaches the vaguely acknowledged topic surrounding the migratory customs of late 19th-century Jamaicans to South and Central America, illuminated by his Costa Rican account accomplished with a sense of purpose behoving a sleuth pursuing a cold case. His keen commentary on West Indies Cricket, apartheid, and the Windrush Generation’s connection to colonialism’s impact on the region is an essay akin to CLR James’ classic Beyond a Boundary.

Immediately attractive to readers who want just the facts, not the spin, this book is an intelligently compiled collection of essays from Mr Moxam’s archives assembled from many years of journalistic duties at Radio Jamaica and Television Jamaica. It is essential for those who wish to reflect on Jamaica’s social, political, and cultural experiences over the past 60 years and beyond in an objective context. Among the best of the lot and well worth seeking out, Earl Moxam’s Vantage Point Jamaica - A Reporter’s Chronicle stands out for its clarity, objectivity, and readability about contemporary and historical occurrences. It is an informative and acutely compiled narrative that allows readers to shift to any essay as they independently are as engaging as they are collectively essential. I unreservedly suggest that a copy be added to your reading list.

- Herbie Miller is a cultural historian specialising in slave culture, Caribbean identity, and socio-musicology. Send feedback to herbimill.hm@gmail.com.