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- ISBN:1-894692-17-9
- $19.95
- Poetry
- 112pp
- 2006
“Poetry is the tool that set me free”
Oni the Haitian Sensation, Ghettostocracy
Ghettostocracy is a rhythmic collection of empowering poetry from Ottawa spoken word diva Oni the Haitian Sensation. With an uncompromising wit and a staunch refusal to submit to any measure of coercion, Oni brings a liberating vision and a powerful sense of social justice to readers.
Spanning from her birthplace of Montreal, to ancestral Haiti and gritty
South Central L.A, Ghettostocracy burns with lyrical brilliance
and political integrity. Taking down popular cultural icons, taking on womanhood
or taking a fist to racist poverty, Ghettostocracy delivers mind-blowing,
poetic voyages debunking nationalistic clichés and “cultural
wannabees” and firmly asserting her Canadianness as Black, brilliant
and deeply rooted in home soil.
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“Ghettostocracy is an unforgettable book by an inimitable,
drop-dead gorgeous artiste. Look out! These poems will make your nostrils
flare, your pulse quicken, and your brain smarter….”
George Elliot Clarke, Governor-General’s Award Winner
“For close to two decades Oni has been liberating audiences with
her firespitting lyrics. Now with Ghettostocracy she hits you like
a tropical hurricane raining wind and fury. She is Al Muntaqim, Oya, Kali,
dancing the destruction of lies and deceit, and affirming the truth. But
ultimately Ghettostocracy is about recreation, renewal, reparation,
and redemption. Read this collection and come face to face with your own
naked, vulnerable, but powerful self.”
Afua Cooper, poet and author of the 2006 Governor-General’s Award
Nominee The Hanging of Angelique