There is a profound level of grace, poise and sophistication that characterizes everything that Melanie Schwapp does. Eloquence is an endearing quality that is embedded into the DNA of every Caribbean woman, and Melanie Schwapp’s compendious work as an author substantiates this notion effortlessly. Melanie’s command of the pen pairs undeniably well with her refined stylistic sensibilities and both are reflective of the awe-inspiring regalia she exudes as an individual.
Melanie Schwapp – who is known as ‘Mels Dew’ on social media – has constantly expressed that her core writing philosophy dictates that no one should write and edit themselves at the same time. In a subtle way, this aspect of her writing philosophy is a metaphor for her journey towards self-awareness. It indicates that one can’t expect to reap harvests at the same time that they are tilling the soil. Tiny water droplets, called ‘dew’, only form on calm, clear nights! This reality in nature is consistent with the clarity of perspective that Mels Dew displays in her writing.
Scwhapp’s regalia is not only to be measured by her developed sense of style and intellect but is most profoundly reflected in the industriousness of her children. Brianna, Daniel and Claire have all positioned themselves as young leaders in the Jamaican society; but all in unique ways. Her beloved firstborn, Dr. Brianna Schwapp, is extolled by her peers as the most articulate, soca-loving veterinarian that Jamaica has ever known. Her ‘one son’ Daniel is revered for his tech-savvy and unending passion for infrastructural development. The charismatic ‘wash belly’ of the family – Claire – is perpetually admired for her ‘UpToDiTime’ paintings and electric dance moves. We are not exactly sure if “Claire Ravers” got her dancing skills from her mom, but we are entirely sure that it takes a Queen to help raise three, uniquely gifted children that are obviously poised for greatness.
Despite being a proud graduate of the University of South Carolina with a Major in Communications, Melanie’s elevated taste level expands beyond just literature. She thoroughly enjoys home décor, landscaping, and garden design but takes the utmost pride in being a wine connoisseur. Well read, well-traveled and most certainly always well dressed – Melanie Schwapp is a modern-day matriarch that we were honored to have a chat with!
CARIB VOXX: How has family life and parenting influenced the scope and depth of your creative writing?
Melanie: “My family and parenting has influenced almost every single aspect of my writing. When I began as a teenager, it was a therapeutic, introverted means of understanding myself and my world. However, it was not until I became a mother and began telling my children stories that my writing took on a different tone. It became more extroverted, putting expressions of enthrallment and glee on my children’s faces. There’s no better reward than seeing your own words create lessons or excitement in your child’s life….greatest motivation ever!
My first book, “Lally-May’s Farm Suss”, was one of my children’s favorite bedtime stories, based on my experiences on my grandparents’ farm in St. James. My second book, “Dew Angels”, began as a type of handbook for them. I wanted to write something that would show them the world as it was….a paradox of cruel beauty and gentle adversity. I wanted them to know that the core of goodness in them was their very own double-edged sword, that despite adversity, faith in self and honoring their strengths would always see them through.
Much of the scenery and characters in my novels are emotionally tied to scenes of my beloved Jamaica, the references to dew and mist and flora all parts of my childhood days where farming, family and productivity went hand in hand.”
CARIB VOXX: Tell us about a Caribbean woman in your formative years that impressed on you the importance of being articulate as a woman.
Melanie: “My maternal grandmother was more or less a single mother of six children who cared for her family, first by sewing baby’s clothing, then, when she inherited a school from her sister-in-law, by teaching. She had nothing more than a secondary school education, yet became a gifted teacher and high-school principal, teaching Common Entrance and GSAT classes till two weeks before her death at the age of 89. She was non-judgmental and filled with quiet faith. Her house was the family central. She gave to those in need with no fanfare. She taught me how to write.
My paternal grandmother was a feisty, humorous woman with a fierce loyalty to family. Her home was also family central; her kitchen filled with the smell of baking and noisy banter. My cousins and I looked forward to the summers we would spend at the farm, hesitantly excited to hear Grandma’s ghost stories. She taught me how to tell a story.
But more than the strength and dedication of these women, is the legacy of strong, fearless daughters they raised. I am grateful to have come from a line of women who march through the world with their heads high, making huge marks in the business and teaching worlds, and fiercely loyal to family.”
CARIB VOXX: Out of your three books, “Lest We Find Gold’”, “Dews Angels” and “Lally May’s Farm Suss”, which one draws the most direct inspiration from your life experiences? Also, do you have a favorite?
“This is like asking me to choose which of my children I love most. I guess I’d have to say that they all have very special places. “Lally-May” is intimately special because it brings back those nights of tucking my babies into bed and cuddling up for story-time.
“Dew Angels” was me stepping out of my comfort zone and presenting myself to the world as an author. It was a very vulnerable place, especially with such a sensitive and controversial topic of racism. It will forever represent being brave.
“Lest We Find Gold” is my newborn, and therefore still in my radar for constant care and promotion. It also represents another sensitive topic of domestic abuse, and the theme of self-exploration and actualization is the same as that in “Dew Angels”. People have asked me if I’m a feminist since my writing is so geared towards the empowerment of women. I believe that my writing exposes the tightrope that women walk in life…the balance between being strong, yet vulnerable; the hesitancy in being true to self in case the world slams into you. It’s a task to find the places that we can be truly safe with who we are, with WHOEVER we want to be. I think my writing is like the net beneath the tightrope, waiting to catch and hold safely when we fall. Falling is inevitable, but finding that place where you know you’ll be safe enough to gather yourself to get back up again – that’s what I want my writing to be.”
CARIB VOXX: What are your top three wines you’d recommend ?
Melanie: “I really, really love a good red wine. Sometimes if I’m in the mood for a refreshing glass of white wine, I’ll have it, but I just love red wine. Right now, my three favorites are –
1. El Enemigo Bonardo
2. Ravenswood Shiraz
3. Cline Zinfandel”
