The canteen at night
Across the street the neighbours operated a small canteen. It was more of a place to hang out and pass the time (or ‘gaff’ as the Guyanese say.) At night I would cross the street for some company and to escape the chaos of my own living situation. I learned how to play dominos and a number of other games I’ve already forgotten. Guyanese like to gamble.
cards
Gaffing
Children wine
Wining is a kind of sexually suggestive dance that’s popular in most Caribbean countries. Something similar to grinding, but perhaps with more dexterity. These kids are about five years old. When they danced it was as though they were mounting one another. Off camera, the adults laughed hysterically at the display. I just kept snapping.
I’ve been back from Guyana for a month. When I look at the work, I feel nothing but disappointment. In 2010 I made substantial investments into my own projects. I took risks. To date, nothing has come to fruition. Instead I am stuck in a basement I loathe, passing time, waiting for a spark. I’m woefully aware that I’ve past the point of wondering what I might be when I grow up; This is my life, as an adult.
Why am I so disappointed?
