What We Leave We Carry

At a time of increased racist attacks, bigotry and violence what a joy – and relief –  to tune in to podcasts on the Writers Mosaic website from “What We Leave We Carry“. This is an oral history project, devised and led by the author and broadcaster, Colin Grant, in collaboration with twelve writers associated with WritersMosaic. The project delves into hidden and diverse communities across Britain. It aims to shed light on their often overlooked but impactful stories, challenging conventional notions of Britishness and the dichotomy between ‘true Brits’ and others.

Drawing inspiration from his previous work, “Homecoming: Voices of the Windrush Generation”, Colin Grant and his collaborators are recording numerous interviews across the country. Every week a new interview is posted on the Writers Mosaic website. Each interview is so different, though there are also many shared experiences. The podcasts are full of wit and humour, sorrow, anger, openness and curiosity as people tell the stories of their various journeys. 

These interviews encompass a wide array of individuals and communities, from South Korean restaurateurs in New Malden to Yemeni steelworkers in Sheffield, Polish coal miners in Doncaster, Ukrainian and South Asian textile workers in Bradford, Nigerian hairdressers in Peckham, Lithuanian tailors in Glasgow, and many more. Through these narratives, the project seeks to reveal the richness and complexity of British culture, transcending boundaries and celebrating diversity.