Mango season come in wid style,

bold like it own di place.

Tree dem bow down heavy‑heavy,

mango drop like rain pon face.

Pickney run out wid plastic bag,

ready fi war wid di breeze.

First one reach get bragging rights,

second one bawl, “Save some please!”

Di big man climb like him still young,

foot slip, but him nah come down.

Him grip di limb like glove,

determined fi wear di mango crown.

Juice a run down everybody hand,

sticky sweet like island sin—

not di bad kind, just di kinda joy

dat mek yuh laugh from deep within.

Neighbor call out, “Gi mi two!”

but she really mean, “Gi mi ten.”

She hide dem quick inna apron fold,

then swear she nuh see none again.

Mango buss pon zinc roof top,

sound like shot inna midday heat.

Dog look up like him offended,

as if mango dare fi touch him street.

An when di sun decide fi vex,

tun up hot like it waan compete,

we still outside wid mango grin,

juice pon chin and juice pon feet.

For mango season bring a madness

dat sweeten every summer day—

a likkle mischief, a likkle laughter, a likkle island joy fi play.

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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