Checking Out Me History
Jason PerinbamShare
Struggling to Analyse Checking Out Me History by John Agard? This guide breaks down Agard’s powerful exploration of identity, power, and historical erasure — perfect for comparing with poems like The Emigree or Tissue. Want full analysis, 50+ quotes, and Grade 9 essays? Grab our Power & Conflict Poetry Cheat Sheet — available now on the Products Page!
What’s Checking Out Me History Really About?
Agard's poem is a bold critique of the Eurocentric version of history taught in British schools. He expresses frustration at being denied knowledge of his own Caribbean heritage, and celebrates powerful Black historical figures who were ignored in his education.
It’s a protest poem — but also a celebration of cultural identity and a call to reclaim one’s history.
Why Is This Poem So Powerful?
The poem is written in dialect and resists traditional poetic forms — a way of reclaiming voice and power.
Agard blends historical figures from European and Caribbean contexts to expose the imbalance in what we’re taught. It forces the reader to question whose stories are told, and whose are silenced.
Key Themes in Checking Out Me History
- Identity and Heritage – reclaiming lost history
- Power and Oppression – who controls the narrative
- Conflict Between Cultures – British vs Caribbean identity
- Education and Erasure – critiquing selective teaching of history
Form and Structure: What to Know
- Free verse & irregular rhythm – rejects traditional English poetic form
- Use of Caribbean dialect – asserts cultural identity and voice
- Juxtaposition of historical figures – contrasts Eurocentric vs Black history
- Rhyme and rhythm shifts – more musical when discussing Black history, showing pride and passion
Context: Why It Matters
- John Agard was born in Guyana and moved to the UK.
- He wrote this to challenge the colonial education system that erased Black history.
- Part of a broader conversation around decolonising the curriculum and recognising diverse contributions to history.
High-Level Vocabulary for Essays
- Colonialism – system where one nation controls another
- Cultural erasure – removal or ignoring of a culture’s influence
- Empowerment – gaining strength and confidence in identity
- Resistance – pushing back against oppressive systems
- Juxtaposition – contrasting two things for effect
3 Key Quotes + Analysis
1. “Dem tell me / Dem tell me / Wha dem want to tell me.”
- Analysis: Repetition and accusatory tone criticise the control of education. “Dem” (they) implies a system of power dictating what history is taught — and what’s hidden.
2. “I carving out me identity.”
- Analysis: Powerful metaphor — carving suggests effort, pain, and permanence. Agard is actively reclaiming his heritage, suggesting identity isn’t given, but fought for.
3. “But Toussaint L’Ouverture / no dem never tell me bout dat.”
- Analysis: The contrast between the powerful figure of Toussaint and the neglect he receives in education reveals systemic racism. Agard celebrates hidden heroes of Black history.
Want Full Notes, Grade 9 Essays & More Quotes?
This is just one part of our Power and Conflict Poetry Cheat Sheet, which includes:
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✅ Grade 9 model answers with examiner-style annotations
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✅ Context, structure, and language tips for every poem
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