Rasta Regge and Patois

One of the symbols of Rastafarian religion that we did not necessarily name is one that grabbed my attention, that of the Patios language. It seams to me that this is a very important symbol and should be given some further explanation. The language of Patios arose in Jamaica as a symbol of Rastafarian autonomy. It represents, once again, the freedom from 'Babylon' changing Jamaican English (considered the language of slaves) into their very own form of speaking. Along with other Rastafarian symbols, Patois is free formed and without rules (a recurring theme in the Rastafarian religion).

Regee music takes on its own form of Patios and free thought and turns it into a soothing sound for all to enjoy. Much of Bob Marley's influential music represents this form of communication. In many of Marley's songs he refers to himself as 'I' rather than 'me', which is typical of Patios. Specifically, in the song Redemption Song, Marley says "We've got to fulfil de book" and "cause none of them a can stop a the time a". To the Rastafarian's and dwellers of Jamaica Patios is quite important, although there are many speculations about the illiteracy rate and Patios role in its high percentage. Some say that the two languages cannot coincide while learning to read and write. I feel this might be true however there is only change in schooling necessary, not the need to reform an important symbol to the Rastafarian way of life. One love baby.