Goddam Gypsy

by Ronald Lee

Book by Lee, Ronald

Genres: Biography, Nonfiction

248 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1971

Reviews

[maria]

Read for Romani cultures class. Super interesting biography full of personality!

[John Farebrother · Rating 5 out of 5]

An autobiographical tale by a Canadian Romany (originally from the UK). It's a story about living on the margins of society, making a living as and where the opportunity can be found, in a country that is not oppressive or dangerous, but rather indifferent to the fate of those who don't get with the programme. It's a story about making one's way in the society of one's own and other minorities, cast together in the common struggle to survive on the edge. There is also fascinating information on the inside workings of Romany society, from the author of a book on the Romany language: Learn Romani: Das-duma Rromanes. All in all a must for anyone interested in the current state of Romany life, as individuals attempt to find a happy medium between their traditional lifestyles and the intrusive demands of the modern world. A book very few people could have written.

[Chris · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fascinating and sad portrayal of a man who embraces a decaying cultural identity (Romani). Once a proud and flourishing people, the Romani were pushed further and further to the margins of society during the 60s and 70s. Ronald Lee (aka "Yanko") insightfully describes the fall of the Canadian gypsy. Yanko, a principled gypsy living in abject poverty, is forever searching for work. As modern capitalism dries up the honest money-making opportunities, Yanko abandons his principles to put food on the table. He becomes a "fence" (stolen property liason) and briefly a thief. An identity crisis ensues, disillusionment reins. Ultimately, Yanko finds salvation in fleeting moments spent partying with friends. Drinking, dancing, forgetting. Drinking, dancing, forgetting...

[ni ☀︎]

*read for class*