Grace

In Grace, readers follow the journey of Ibn Opcit, a Caribbean poet facing death, who reflects on profound themes through his experiences and adventures.

In Grace, the first volume of John Barr's two-part work, readers are introduced to the poignant tale of Ibn Opcit, a Caribbean gardener and poet facing a dire fate. Condemned to die by torture, he shares his reflections through a series of jailhouse monologues. These monologues delve into profound themes such as justice, creation, and the essence of life and death. The narrative captures the essence of his struggle, as he contemplates not just his own mortality but the larger implications of existence and the human condition.

The second volume, Opcit at Large, takes readers on a journey through three distinct adventures where Ibn Opcit actively resists his oppressors. Drawing parallels to Virgil's journey in the Inferno, he explores the afterworld of reincarnation in a segment titled The Afterdammit. This exploration serves as a metaphor for rebirth and resilience, illustrating the poet's quest for meaning beyond suffering.

In the next adventure, Opcit finds himself as the poet laureate to Africa's newest President for Life, navigating the complexities of power and identity in Opcit en Afrique. Finally, he orbits Earth as The Last Cosmonaut during a pivotal moment in history, just before the fall of the Soviet Union. Through these experiences, Ibn Opcit emerges with renewed dignity and strength, embodying the spirit of survival and triumph over adversity.