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Cover of Dream on Monkey Mountain
drama· Saint Lucia

Dream on Monkey Mountain

by Derek Walcott
Aggregate Editorial Score30/100
Published 1967English
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About This Book

Derek Walcott's Dream on Monkey Mountain (1967) stands as one of the most significant works of drama of its era. Dream on Monkey Mountain is a play by Derek Walcott that explores themes of identity and liberation through the story of Makak, a poor charcoal burner who dreams of returning to Africa. The play is a complex blend of realism and fantasy, examining the psychological effects of colonialism and the quest for self-discovery. Its innovative structure and profound themes have made it a landmark in Caribbean theater. Themes of identity, liberation, colonialism run through the work.

Book Details

AuthorDerek Walcott
Published1967
Country of Origin🇱🇨 Saint Lucia
LanguageEnglish
Categorydrama
Editorial Score30/100
Country of Origin

🇱🇨 Saint Lucia

This book is part of Saint Lucia's rich literary tradition.

Explore books from Saint Lucia →

Editorial Assessment

First published in 1967, Derek Walcott's Dream on Monkey Mountain is a work of drama that has drawn sustained interest from critics and prize committees alike. Its engagement with identity, liberation, colonialism, dreams gives the book a depth that extends well beyond its genre. Critics and institutions have consistently placed Dream on Monkey Mountain among the notable works of its period. Our aggregate score of 30/100 is compiled from 0 editorial sources that range from Nobel and Booker committees to leading literary journals. The appeal of Dream on Monkey Mountain lies partly in its refusal to offer easy answers. Its exploration of identity, liberation, colonialism, dreams is sustained, textured, and genuinely thought-provoking in ways that stay with readers well after the final page. Within Saint Lucia's literary landscape, Derek Walcott occupies a significant position. Dream on Monkey Mountain is both a personal artistic statement and a contribution to a tradition shaped by the country's history and cultural concerns.
About this assessment: Editorial scores are aggregated from multiple independent sources including major literary prizes, critical surveys, and leading publications. Our editorial team reviews and contextualises this data. Rankings reflect critical consensus, not personal opinion or popularity metrics. Learn about our methodology.
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About the Author
Derek Walcott
Saint Lucia
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Derek Walcott is a Saint Lucia author whose work in drama has earned recognition from readers and critics alike.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Dream on Monkey Mountain about?

Dream on Monkey Mountain is a play by Derek Walcott that explores themes of identity and liberation through the story of Makak, a poor charcoal burner who dreams of returning to Africa. The play is a complex blend of realism and fantasy, examining the psychological effects of colonialism and the quest for self-discovery. Its innovative structure and profound themes have made it a landmark in Caribbean theater.

Who wrote Dream on Monkey Mountain?

Dream on Monkey Mountain was written by Derek Walcott, from Saint Lucia. First published in 1967.

What awards has Dream on Monkey Mountain won?

Dream on Monkey Mountain has received the following recognition: notable critical recognition.

Is Dream on Monkey Mountain worth reading?

Dream on Monkey Mountain is a well-regarded book with an aggregate editorial score of 30/100 on 50 Best Books. It is particularly recommended for readers interested in identity, liberation, colonialism.

Where can I buy Dream on Monkey Mountain?

You can buy Dream on Monkey Mountain on Amazon. Click the Buy on Amazon button above to find the best edition.

What category is Dream on Monkey Mountain?

Dream on Monkey Mountain is classified as drama.

What country is Dream on Monkey Mountain from?

Dream on Monkey Mountain originates from Saint Lucia's literary tradition. Explore more books from Saint Lucia on our country page.

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