Identity as seen in the Papiamentu Haiku of Elis Juliana

The purpose of this book is to give an appreciation of the linguistic diversity which exists in the Caribbean in general and to give a look into what helped form the identity of one of its authors. The method of pursuing this goal is to focus as a preliminary step on the existing problems in defining and categorizing pidgins and creoles. A literary genre in the format of haiku has been selected as one aspect of my analysis not only because of its distinct format but also because it permits an examination of the author’s style and skill. An in-depth analysis of Elis Juliana’s work will provide an understanding of the impact historical events incorporated with religious beliefs and ways of coping within a dominated way of life have had on the identity of the Papiamentu author. Since the creole Papiamentu is used as the medium I will look into how this creole arose in this particular area of the Caribbean basin.