Summary of Rhoma Spencer - Calypso of the Absurd in Spoiler and Shadow

00:00:00 - 00:25:00

Rhoma Spencer's song "Calypso of the Absurd" is a comedic song about a woman who is unhappy with her husband and decides to leave him. The song is full of absurd and humorous lyrics, and it ultimately serves as a commentary on the human condition.

• 00:00:00 Roma Spencer presents "Calypso of the Absurd in Spoiler and Shadow," exploring the intersection of humor and philosophy in the work of two of the great calypsonians, Martin Esling and Shadow. The presentation is an attempt to reveal the absurdist nature of some of the lyrics in Shadow's compositions, and how they align themselves with absurdist fiction and plays.
• 00:05:00 In "Rhoma Spencer - Calypso of the Absurd in Spoiler and Shadow," Rhoma Spencer discusses the themes of absurdity and lost memory in his songs. Shadows lyrics could be seen as nonsensical, while spoilers songs are full of humor and are driven by Musical Arrangement. In the end, both songs raise questions about the meaning of life.
• 00:10:00 Rhoma Spencer's "Calypso of the Absurd in Spoiler and Shadow" is a song about the harsh realities of the AIDS pandemic in Trinidad and Tobago in the early 1990s. Shadow, the narrator, is arguing with a fellow man about the unfairness of society, while Spoiler, a character with a knack for comedy, presents a roundabout turn on the same situation. The song is both tragic and comic, and it serves its purpose in highlighting how nonsensical, mundane life can be.
• 00:15:00 In this comedic calypso, the narrator, Spoiler, considers the absurdity of human behavior. He sings about a man who is killed by a snake, a woman who shines in that murder, and a policeman who warns the gentleman about wearing something before he sends for the prison van. However, despite the lyrical content, the song is ultimately about comedy and individualism.
• 00:20:00 The author discusses the calypso song "Mary" by Rhoma Spencer. The lyrics talk about a woman who is talking to herself and decides whether or not to marry a man. The song is absurd and philosophical, and the author recommends that listeners think about the lyrics and their meaning.
• 00:25:00 Rhoma Spencer's song "Calypso of the Absurd" is about a woman who is unhappy with her husband and decides to leave him.