George Hodge

In 1963, in my effort to raise money for my village cricket team, I wrote and directed a play about a loving husband who wished to give his beloved wife of some years a special gift. After discussing the idea, they both decided that hiring a photographer and a singing guitarist would make a candlelight dinner at home ever so special and romantic.

The much-anticipated evening came and the two professionals arrived on time. The couple had created the most conducive atmosphere, they being suitably attired and in the right mood.

The photographer showed his experience and expertise, making the beautiful spouse feel and believe that she was a high end model. And, the guitarist ever so sweetly played love songs that captured the mood of the moment.

The photographer packed up and left as expected, after doing his shoot. Those were the days of the old cameras; so, the wife was not fortunate to see shots on a screen; but, was satisfied with the promise that there were great photos that would be delivered within a short time.

The guitarist was asked by the couple to remain a while longer and play some more selections from his apparent wide repertoire. While the husband went to collect a new bottle of favoured wine, his hitherto faithful wife gave in to the charm of the guitarist, setting in motion a series of clandestine encounters that went unnoticed until, one day, the husband caught the two flagrante delicto.

Disappointed and disillusioned, the husband ended up forgiving his wife.

The cover image is a combination of 3 states - using segments of their flags (Great Britain, St. Kitts-Nevis and Anguilla) - and the push for freedom by the Anguilla people. An image from the 1967 revolution shows protesters with signage displaying their determination for secession from the tri-state St Kitts-Nevis-Anguilla. In addition, the Lesser Antillean Archipelago depicts the closeness of the Caribbean islands.