How to Say Babylon A Memoir by Safiya Sinclair

Safiya Sinclair's "How to Say Babylon" unravels a poignant narrative echoing "Educated" and "Born a Crime." The memoir details her struggle to break free from a rigid Rastafarian upbringing dominated by her father's patriarchal control. Safiya's childhood unfolds under the threat of Babylon, the perceived corrupting influence of the Western world. Her father's strict mandates strip away autonomy, enforcing a life devoid of choices for Safiya and her sisters. Yet, Safiya's mother gifts her the solace of books, particularly poetry, igniting a rebellion fueled by education and self-discovery.

The clash between Safiya's growing voice and her father's oppressive beliefs leads to a tumultuous collision. "How to Say Babylon" is Safiya's reckoning with a culture that nurtured and sought to silence her, confronting patriarchy, tradition, and the shadows of colonialism in Jamaica. Through poetic prose, Sinclair paints a universal journey of a woman reclaiming power while providing a rare glimpse into the enigmatic world of Rastafari.

The memoir unfolds as a lyrical exploration of identity, resilience, and the profound impact of breaking free from societal constraints 📚❤️