Elizabeth Walcott-Hackshaw, a Trinidadian luminary in the realms of literature and academia, holds the esteemed position of Professor of French Literature and Creative Writing at the University of the West Indies. Born in Trinidad in 1964, she ventured to the United States for her education, returning to her homeland in 1992.
As the daughter of Nobel Prize laureate Derek Walcott, Elizabeth Walcott-Hackshaw inherited a literary legacy and carved her path with a fusion of scholarly and creative pursuits. Her scholarly contributions are notable, particularly in the exploration of Francophone Caribbean literature, as evidenced by her numerous essays and articles. Additionally, she has co-edited several books, showcasing her commitment to shaping the discourse around Caribbean literature.
In 2007, Walcott-Hackshaw unveiled her creative prowess with the publication of her first collection of short stories, “Four Taxis Facing North,” a work that transcended borders with its translation into Italian. Her literary journey reached new heights in 2014 with the release of her first novel, “Mrs. B,” which earned recognition by being shortlisted for the “Best Book Fiction” in the Guyana Prize for Literature.
Walcott-Hackshaw’s influence extends beyond her written works, as she has contributed book reviews and creative pieces to prestigious journals like The Caribbean Review of Books and Small Axe. Her short stories, characterized by their universal resonance, have been translated widely and find a place of honor in renowned anthologies, including “Trinidad Noir: The Classics” and “New Daughters of Africa.” Elizabeth Walcott-Hackshaw stands as a literary force, seamlessly blending the scholarly and the creative to enrich the Caribbean literary landscape.
