I sincerely think that my novel, The Village Curtain, examines a specific segment of West Indian, and particularly the Jamaican society’s, use of survival techniques and private culture which exists within some small Caribbean fishing communities. A genuine attempt is made to present these imaginary inhabitants of a non existent village using the most accurate possible descriptions of weather and geography. This is designed to create an atmosphere of deceptive reality.

I hope that an appreciation of the extreme difference between appearance and reality is achieved in what may be seen superficially as a picturesque and idyllic place. The uncertain outcome of charitable, official and bureaucratic solutions in that milieu is a recurring theme in the stories.

The intended audience is readers of modern fiction, general readers and perhaps undergraduate and graduate students interested in the culture of the West Indies.

My biography may appear to be simple at first look; however, I have been associated with the commercial fishing industry for over forty years. Born in Kingston in 1943, I have been engaged with marine sales, repair and marketing since the mid 1960’s. After 1970, I became directly involved in the supply and service of equipment to the commercial fishing industry in Jamaica. My lifelong interest has been the methods used in various types of fishing and the people who work in this field. All the stories in The Village Curtain have authentic origins. I am still active in this field and my fascination with the people and the industry is undiminished.

The collection has been presented in a style where dark humor, secret deeds and bright sunlight compete for attention.