Derek Walcott Papers
Dates: 1980-ongoing
Extent: 159 boxes and items
Finding Aids to the Derek Walcott Papers:
MS Coll. 136 [ Finding Aid ]
MS Coll. 348 [ Finding Aid ]
MS Coll. 504 [ Finding Aid ]
The Derek Walcott Papers contain literary papers relating to Walcott's poetic, theatrical and prose writing from the early 1980s to the present day. Holograph notes, rough drafts and revisions - for both published and unpublished word - are included, as well as final drafts and galleys of publications. Many drafts are the result of a "cut-and-paste" method using a variety of formats. These are referred to as "composite drafts" throughout. Many works, both poetic and theatrical, also include screen adaptations.
The collection also includes correspondence, ephemera and printed appearances and clippings relating to his readings and lectures.
There is a small collection of material relating to Walcott's role as stage director, particularly with the Trinidad Theatre Workshop. The literary papers are complemented by sketches and watercolours by Walcott, often in the form of stage directions or film storyboards. For more extensive holdings of the Trinidad Theatre Workshop, please see MS Coll 418 and MS Coll 503.
