Dem come off plane wid sunscreen bright,

ready fi sun and pure delight.

Dem seh, “Mi cyan wait fi beach and rum!”

but breeze lick dem — Welcome, welcome.

Dem ask, “Where’s jerk?” like jerk a hide,

as if it nuh deh pon every side.

Dem taste di pepper, eyes open wide—

“Lawd God! Mi tongue just nearly died!”

Dem try fi talk like yardie crew,

“Wah gwan mi boss?” — but sound brand new.

Taxi man laugh till him nearly cry,

“Try again, sah — but nuh so high.”

Dem go Dunn’s River, slip pon rock,

grab stranger waist fi save dem shock.

Dem buy big hat fi block di sun,

still bun up same way — island fun.

Dem love di vibes, di food, di beat,

di barefoot dancing in di street.

Dem seh, “Mi coming back again!”

and we just smile — “Alright, mi fren.”

The Tourist — bless dem wandering soul,

dem come fi sea but leave wid role.

For every visitor soon will see:

Jamaica sweet like harmony.

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About the Writer:

Poetess Defy is a Jamaican author, and poet, whose work is deeply rooted in the cultural rhythms, spiritual grounding, and lived experiences of the island she calls home. Born in Kingston and shaped by the vibrant communities of Harbour View, Windward Road, Rockfort, and Seaview Gardens; she has spent more than two decades writing, teaching, and preserving Jamaican stories through her creative and educational work.

As a writer, she has authored more than eighty books. Her work is guided by a deep love for Jamaica, a commitment to truth, and a desire to uplift and inspire. Her poetry, in particular, captures the humor, resilience, struggles, and beauty of Jamaican life, offering readers an intimate window into the island’s spirit.

Books by Poetess Defy