AL Ramsawack, the prolific chronicler of native folklore stories, has died at age 87.
Ramsawack, who wrote more than 300 children’s books on lagahoo, douens, socouyants and other legendary characters, passed away after a short illness.
More than anyone else in Trinidad and Tobago’s modern history, Ramsawack narrated haunting stories of popular mythical creatures, for which he was honoured with a national award in 2004.
In addition to his many books, the folklore storyteller wrote over a generation in a Sunday newspaper, and also inspired television documentaries.
He told eerie stories of Papa Bois and other inventive local characters that evoked memories of a bygone era and informed youths of a past cultural stream.
Until his 80s, Ramsawack was writing and taking part in book readings, wearing his characteristic straw hat and speaking in a low-keyed manner.
He related vivid myths of the dark creatures frightening rural villagers, leaving them terrified about venturing out at night and into lonely communities.
Other folklorists have appreciated that Ramsawack holds a singular spot in the country’s cultural history.
He was a former art teacher at San Fernando Government Secondary School.
