Yesterday, November 15th the High Commissioner of Cyprus and the Director General of the Commonwealth Foundation in London came together with the St. Kitts and Nevis High Commission to launch “Chasing Footsteps”, the fourth collection of poems by High Commissioner of St. Kitts and Nevis, His Excellency Dr Kevin M. Isaac. Chasing Footsteps is as complex, compelling and intriguing as his others works and uses verbal photography to take readers on a journey of discovery, love and renewal.
In support of the efforts of the Governor General His Excellency Sir Tapley Seaton QC, GCMG, CVO, JP; High Commissioner Isaac undertook to commit the proceeds of the Launch to the St. Christopher National Trust.
His Excellency Euripides Evriviades of Cyprus gave the welcoming remarks and introduced HC Isaac. He commended HC Isaac for his poetic gift and the ability to use words to frame his ideas to solicit particular responses from the readers. He added that “HC Isaac is not only a brilliant poet but an exceptional diplomat, whose knowledge, calm demeanour and guidance has helped us to navigate challenging times within the Commonwealth, as I am sure in CARICOM.
We commend you, we are happy for you and we are proud of you.” Other diplomatic colleagues from across London attended the event to support this important initiative.
The diverse audience included academics, diplomats, barristers, friends, and staff- past and present – from the Commonwealth Secretariat. Mr Philip Parham, UK Commonwealth Envoy, read the poem “It’s not fair” which evoked a sense of intrigue from the audience. Michel Massih QC, who also wrote the preface to the book, read “Silence” another moving piece; while Vijay Krishnarayan, Director-General of the Commonwealth Foundation read “Tell me your story” a poem which High Commissioner Isaac used to draw attention to the importance of taking time to get to know one’s neighbours, friends, family and surroundings.
HC Isaac points to and celebrates his upbringing in St. Kitts, which has become a constant throughout his writing, for the development of his poetic voice.
His previous books include Whispers of Silence, Memories in Serenade and Breakfast with my Fathers. In donating the proceeds from the book launch, His Excellency is reminding us all of the importance of giving back to our communities. High Commissioner Isaac’s works are available online on Amazon.com
