IS TATAMKHULU AFRIKA’S NOBLE SOUL WITH US?
ON December 23, 2002, renowned South African poet Tatamkhulu Ismail Afrika died in Bo-Kaap. Born in Egypt to Turkish parents, Afrika’s pen name, Tatamkhulu Afrika, meaning “Grandfather Afrika” in Xhosa, reflects the wisdom and generational perspective he brought to his works. His poems vividly capture the profound impact of apartheid on individuals, communities and the nation as a whole. Tatamkhulu Afrika’s poetry stands as a poignant testament to the human experience during the apartheid regime in South Africa. One of his notable works is
Nothing’s Changed, a poem that eloquently portrays the persisting racial inequality even after the supposed end of apartheid:
Small round hard stones click, under my heels, seeding grasses thrust bearded seeds … District Six. No board says it is: but my feet know
Through vivid imagery, he paints a stark picture of social divisions where luxury coexists with poverty, highlighting the enduring scars left by the oppressive regime.
The poem serves as a powerful commentary on the false promises of change and the persistence of injustice. Tatamkhulu explores the psychological toll of apartheid, delving into the minds of those subjected to its dehumanising policies. The poem captures the haunting sense of displacement, alienation and the erosion of identity experienced by individuals under such a discriminatory system, which is also happening in Palestine at the present.
It serves as a reminder that the impact of apartheid extended beyond the physical realm, leaving lasting scars on the collective psyche of the nation.
In doing so, Tatamkhulu contributes to the broader narrative of resistance against systemic racism and inequality. Moreover, his poetic expressions serve as historical documents that capture the emotions, struggles and resilience of a people living under the apartheid regime.
His words transcend time, allowing future generations to connect with the harsh realities of the past and fostering a collective understanding of the need for social justice. Through his evocative verses, he sheds light on the injustices of the time and contributes to the dialogue on human rights and social equality. He was arrested in 1987 for “terrorism” and was banned for five years from writing and public speaking.
Tatamkhulu Afrika died 21 years ago, on December 23, leaving a lasting legacy as a poet who used his words to confront and challenge the injustices of his time.
His grave is at the Johnson Road cemetery, renovated by me three years ago. The script written on his original gravestone, “Allah is the light of the heavens and the earth”, indicates his world view.
It is a matter of curiosity; I wonder if his soul is with us while the apartheid Israeli government is oppressing innocent people in Palestine.
New, up-market, haute cuisine, guard at the gatepost, whites only inn. No sign says it is: but we know where we belong … … Hands burn. For a stone, a bomb, to shiver down the glass. Nothing’s changed