Category
Words, using rhythm and rhyme evoking senses and scenes, is the form I used to depict our recent cycle tour from Jeffries Bay to the Strand ending with the iconic Cape Town Cycle Tour.
Continue reading
Afzal Moola, a prolific poet recently had his book of poetry and prose called Struggle, Exile & Love: Prose and Poems published. I met Afzal when he first returned from exile in the early 90s. Together with his friends they house sat when we went away on holiday. We had to budget at least half a day cleaning up after they had left. The scoundrel still remains apologetic to this day. He has matured into a remarkable and well-recognised poet. This is the best way I could pay tribute to his profound poetry.
Continue readingMy family gave me the mandate to arrange our December holiday in 2005. Since I had recently acquired an off road vehicle, long distance travel and camping in a different place every 2 days was my choice. They were anxious but excited as we travelled more than 5000kms navigating through 8 provinces. It was truly an adventure as my journal, our pictures but mostly our memories recall. This poem was written shortly after we descended the Swartberg and camped on the outskirts of Oudtshoorn.
Continue reading
I wrote this poem in tribute to a great friend and comrade who has been an encouraging support for the years I have known him. I had the privilege of reading this out to him on his 50th birthday celebration in 2011. To Jeremy 🙏.
Continue reading
Miriam Abrams and I accompanied several academics in 2003 who were pioneering multi disciplinary research at a place called Makapansgat in Limpopo. Over 150 years ago, thousands of Ndebele died of starvation in the month-long siege by the Voortrekkers. Fossils dating back 3.3 million years have been found preserving a unique record of hominid habitation. After the paleontologist, archaeologist, geologist, chemist, social anthropologist and other academics spoke about their research interests, Miriam and I sat on some rocks eating our sandwiches while debating the existence of the soul. She argued that the caves were filled with the souls of the dead. I playfully jotted some of these words and we both had a good laugh. I revisited these words when she passed away in 2011 remembering her zest for life, political acumen, culinary skills, vast reading portfolio, among other passions and interests, and, our deep friendship which I still miss.
Continue reading
Brett Murray’s satirical and provocative 1.85m portrait of President Jacob Zuma titled “Spear” part of a body of political work entitled “Hail to the Thief II”, which was displayed at the Goodman Gallery in 2012, caused much mayhem as well as philosophical debates.
The portrait depicts me in a manner that suggests I am a philanderer, a womaniser and one with no respect. It is an undignified depiction of my personality and seeks to create doubt about my personality in the eyes of fellow citizens, family and children – Jacob Zuma
I was inspired to write this poem as I watched the event and debates unfold.
Continue reading
