A reading of De Man: a performance poem

• Main Authors: Mordecai, Pamela, Mordecai, Martin, McKenzie, Stephanie, Ganz, Shoshannah
• Format: Text
• Language: English
• Published: Memorial University of Newfoundland 2012
• Subjects: Corner Brook; Norris Point; Newfoundland
• Online Access: https://research.library.mun.ca/1999/; https://research.library.mun.ca/1999/5/Mordecai_Readings_Bonne_Bay.mp4; https://research.library.mun.ca/1999/3/postermordecai_Grenfell.pdf; https://research.library.mun.ca/1999/4/postermordecai_Grenfell.pdf

This is the only existing recording of Pamela Mordecai’s seminal book-length poem, de Man: A performance poem. De Man: A performance poem is an eyewitness account by two observers who are participants – by extension – of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Naomi, a middle-aged woman and a maid in the service of Pontius Pilate’s wife, has been sent by her to bring back an account of what is being done to “de man.” The second observer, Samuel, old and disabled, was taught carpentry by Joseph, the “father” of Jesus, and has come to witness what has befallen the little boy he knew “running up and down chasing him ball” in Nazareth. The crucifixion account is powerfully rendered in the everyday language of the people who report it. The immediacy of their reaction to the events provides graphic and moving insights into what is perhaps the best-known story in the world. Produced by Stephanie McKenzie and Shoshannah Ganz, Grenfell Campus, Corner Brook, Newfoundland. The poem is performed by Pamela Mordecai (Naomi) and her husband/fellow writer Martin Mordecai (Samuel) at Bonne Bay Marine Station, Norris Point, Newfoundland. Newfoundland’s Anita Best welcomes the Mordecai’s and begins the evening by singing a Newfoundland folk song called “The Gallant Brigantine” about a sailor who goes to Jamaica. Produced by Stephanie McKenzie and Shoshannah Ganz, Grenfell Campus, Corner Brook, Newfoundland.