Building Legacy: Diana McCaulay on ‘A House for Miss Pauline’
In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Jamaican author Diana McCaulay about her latest novel, A House for Miss Pauline. This beautifully written book delves into themes of history, intergenerational relationships, and the evolving identity of Jamaica.
Miss Pauline, is nearing her 100th birthday when the stones of her home—built from the ruins of a nearby plantation—begin to shift and whisper. As she confronts long-buried secrets, she embarks on a journey of atonement, bridging the past and present in a deeply moving way. Check out my review of “Miss Pauline.”
During our conversation, Diana and I explored the real-life inspirations behind the book, including her own family history and her experiences with Jamaica’s changing landscape. We also discussed the importance of preserving the stories of our elders. Too often, their wisdom and memories are lost as younger generations move away or become disconnected from the past. Miss Pauline’s story is a reminder that history isn’t just something in books—it lives in the people and places around us.
Another key theme we touched on was the fate of Jamaica’s plantation great houses. What should we do with these historical structures? Should they be demolished, preserved as memorials, or repurposed for modern use? It’s a complicated conversation, but one that speaks to how we remember the past while shaping the future.
Beyond history, we also reflected on the environmental changes happening in Jamaica. From disappearing beaches to the loss of green spaces, Diana—who has a long background in environmental activism—shared her insights on how the land itself tells a story, one we should be paying attention to.
This episode was a rich and thought-provoking discussion about identity, legacy, and storytelling. If you love Caribbean literature, history, and thought-provoking conversations, you won’t want to miss it!
Stay Connected
Connect with Diana McCaulay: Website | Instagram | Get “A House for Miss Pauline”
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