Phonetic spelling represents the African and Caribbean oral tradition, where stories, history, and culture are passed down by speaking and listening rather than writing. By writing the poem in the way people actually speak, Agard captures the rhythm and sound of spoken language, making the poem feel more personal and authentic. This use of phonetic spelling challenges the standard English taught in schools and highlights the importance of oral storytelling in preserving cultural identity. It also shows Agard’s pride in his heritage and his desire to give a voice to histories that have been ignored or silenced.
