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## **Discussion of “Dream on Monkey Mountain” by Derek Walcott**
### **Introduction**
“Dream on Monkey Mountain” is a pivotal work by Derek Walcott, a St. Lucian poet and playwright who
received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1992. First performed in 1967, the play is renowned for its
exploration of identity, colonialism, and the search for cultural roots. Set in the Caribbean, it delves
deeply into the psychological and spiritual struggles of its characters, particularly focusing on the
protagonist, Makak, a poor charcoal burner who experiences a transformative dream. Walcott’s work is
infused with rich symbolism, lyrical language, and a profound understanding of the post-colonial
condition.
### **Plot Summary**
The play begins with Makak imprisoned in a jail cell with another prisoner, Moustique. The jailer,
Corporal Lestrade, embodies the oppressive colonial authority. Makak recounts his vision of a white
goddess who tells him to reclaim his African heritage and identity. This vision propels Makak on a
journey to self-discovery and redemption.
Makak escapes from jail with the help of the apparition, embarking on a journey up Monkey Mountain,
accompanied by Moustique and two others, Tigre and Souris. Along the way, they encounter various
figures, including a madman who claims to be a prophet and a market woman who accuses Makak of
being a charlatan. The journey is filled with surreal and symbolic events, blending reality and dream.
In the climax, Makak confronts his deepest fears and illusions. He realizes that his vision of the white
goddess was a manifestation of his internalized colonial inferiority. By killing the apparition, he
symbolically rejects the colonial mindset. The play ends with Makak’s awakening and acceptance of his
identity.
### **Themes**
#### **Colonialism and Identity**
Central to “Dream on Monkey Mountain” is the theme of colonialism and its impact on identity. Makak’s
vision of the white goddess symbolizes the pervasive influence of colonialism on the psyche of colonized
people. The goddess represents the idealized and unattainable standard imposed by colonial powers,
leading to a deep sense of inferiority among the colonized. Makak’s journey is thus a quest to liberate
himself from this internalized oppression and to reclaim his African roots.
Walcott explores how colonialism disrupts and distorts personal and cultural identity. Characters like
Corporal Lestrade embody the colonial authority, enforcing the values and norms of the colonizers.
Makak’s ultimate rejection of the white goddess signifies a break from the colonial mindset and an
embrace of his true self.
#### **Dreams and Reality**
The interplay between dreams and reality is a significant aspect of the play. The boundary between the
two is fluid, reflecting the surreal and hallucinatory nature of Makak’s experiences. Dreams serve as a
vehicle for exploring deeper truths and confronting subconscious fears.
Makak’s dream of the white goddess initiates his journey, blurring the lines between reality and
imagination. Throughout the play, dreams and visions challenge the characters’ perceptions and force
them to confront their inner struggles. Walcott uses this fluidity to delve into the complexities of identity
and liberation.
#### **Redemption and Transformation**
Makak’s journey is fundamentally one of redemption and transformation. He starts as a broken, self-
loathing man, but through his dream and subsequent experiences, he undergoes a profound change.
The journey up Monkey Mountain is symbolic of his ascent to self-awareness and spiritual awakening.
The act of killing the white goddess represents Makak’s rejection of the false ideals imposed by
colonialism and his acceptance of his own worth and identity. This moment of catharsis and
transformation is crucial, as it marks the culmination of his journey toward self-empowerment and
liberation.
#### **Cultural Roots and Heritage**
Walcott emphasizes the importance of reconnecting with cultural roots and heritage. Makak’s African
ancestry is a central element of his identity, and his journey is a process of rediscovering and reclaiming
this heritage. The play suggests that true liberation and self-knowledge come from embracing one’s
cultural history and roots.
This theme resonates with the broader post-colonial context, where many former colonies grapple with
issues of identity and cultural reclamation. Walcott’s portrayal of Makak’s journey underscores the
significance of cultural heritage in the formation of identity and the process of healing from colonial
trauma.
### **Symbolism and Imagery**
“Dream on Monkey Mountain” is rich with symbolism and imagery that deepen the play’s thematic
exploration.
#### **The White Goddess**
The white goddess is a powerful symbol of colonial influence and the internalization of racial inferiority.
She represents the unattainable ideals imposed by colonial powers, which lead to self-loathing and a
fractured identity. Makak’s vision of the goddess and his eventual rejection of her signify his struggle
against and liberation from these oppressive ideals.
#### **Monkey Mountain**
Monkey Mountain itself is a symbolic space. It represents both a physical and spiritual journey toward
enlightenment and self-discovery. The ascent of the mountain is metaphorical for Makak’s inner
journey, where he confronts his fears, illusions, and ultimately, his true self.
#### **Masks and Masquerades**

Masks and masquerades play a significant role in the play, symbolizing the multiple layers of identity and
the masks people wear to navigate the world. The characters’ use of masks reflects the performative
nature of identity and the disguises they adopt, either imposed by society or assumed for survival. The
removal of masks signifies the revelation of true identities and the shedding of false personas.
### **Characters and Their Symbolic Roles**
#### **Makak**
Makak, the protagonist, is a complex character representing the struggle for identity and liberation. His
name, which means “monkey” in French Creole, signifies the derogatory labels imposed by colonialism.
However, his journey up Monkey Mountain symbolizes his transformation from a self-loathing individual
to one who embraces his heritage and identity.
#### **Moustique**
Moustique, Makak’s companion, serves as a foil to Makak. He is pragmatic and skeptical, often
questioning Makak’s visions and motives. Moustique represents the practical, survival-oriented mindset
that contrasts with Makak’s spiritual and idealistic journey. His tragic death underscores the harsh
realities faced by those who dare to dream and challenge the status quo.
#### **Corporal Lestrade**
Corporal Lestrade embodies the oppressive colonial authority. He enforces colonial laws and norms, and
his interactions with Makak and other characters reveal the pervasive impact of colonialism on
individual psyches. Lestrade’s eventual questioning of his own role and identity highlights the internal
conflicts experienced by those who serve the colonial system.
#### **Tigre and Souris**
Tigre and Souris, the two other prisoners who accompany Makak on his journey, represent different
facets of colonial society. Tigre’s aggression and Souris’s subservience reflect the varied responses to
colonial oppression. Their presence adds depth to the exploration of how colonialism shapes behavior
and attitudes.
### **Language and Style**
Walcott’s use of language in “Dream on Monkey Mountain” is notable for its lyrical and poetic qualities.
The play’s dialogue is imbued with rhythm and musicality, reflecting the Caribbean oral tradition. This
stylistic choice

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## Discussion of “Dream on Monkey Mountain” by Derek Walcott

### Plot Summary

#### Dreams and Reality

#### Redemption and Transformation

### Symbolism and Imagery

#### The White Goddess

#### Monkey Mountain

#### Masks and Masquerades

### Characters and Their Symbolic Roles

#### Corporal Lestrade

#### Tigre and Souris

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