Reviving Walcott’s Rat Island Vision: Who Will Lead the Charge?

At a relaxed event, accountant and civil society analyst Richard Peterkin sat beside Sigrid Nama, leading to a poignant discussion about her late partner, the esteemed Derek Walcott, and the unfulfilled aspirations tied to his vision. This conversation resurrected a dream championed by Walcott following his 1992 Nobel Prize win: transforming Rat Island, a modest islet off Saint Lucia's northwest coast, into a haven for writers and artists. Initially embraced, the bold concept received government support, resulting in the establishment of the Rat Island Foundation in 1994. Despite early pledge of funding, there remains no trace of its disbursement. As time passed, enthusiasm diminished. Yet, Peterkin is inspired by Nama’s passion and renewed interest from others, contemplating whether Walcott’s dream might still surface. “The lizards would be happy to share the island,” said Peterkin, envisioning the unique potential of a writers' retreat on this historical site. He is eager to discuss plans with Saint Lucia’s Minister for Culture, Dr. Ernest Hilaire, hoping to revive this cherished initiative.