The Snake Never Stirs

The poem, “The snake never stirs,” captures a profound sense of stillness, hunger, and unfulfilled aspirations. The vivid imagery invokes a poignant reflection on the speaker’s stagnant existence and the unfulfilled dreams that have plagued them.

Themes

• Stagnation and Frustration

The heading of the poem introduces the idea of stagnation through contrasting images. The snake, a symbol of inactivity and immobility, signifies the speaker’s life where nothing ever changes. The phrase “never stirs” further emphasizes the lethargy, indicating a lack of progress or movement. The hunting paw that pounces on the cricket in mid-chirrup suggests a momentary diversion from the monotonous existence, implying a fleeting hope or excitement. However, it is quickly undermined by the following lines, which describe the musasa trees’ sapless skeletons creaking and groaning in the dusty winds. This imagery epitomizes an environment devoid of life, reinforcing the speaker’s frustration and longing for change.

• Dreams and Aspirations

The poem also introduces the theme of dreams and aspirations, and this juxtaposes them with the reality of the speaker’s life. The hungry mongrel, exhausted from chasing “inviting stenches” around the village, finds no satisfaction and collapses onto bony buttocks. The use of the word “inviting” suggests temptation or allure, and this leaves the reader to wonder if the speaker has pursued enticing but ultimately unfulfilling paths in their quest for happiness. As the mongrel gazes at the moon and moans, it symbolizes the speaker’s yearning for something more, a desire that remains unfulfilled.

• Personal versus Public Lives

The final stanza explores the contrast between the personal and public spheres. The reference to the “lone stage in the coves of the soul” is a metaphor that signifies the sanctuary where the speaker’s dreams and aspirations reside. Here, they rehearse countless acts with happy endings, suggesting a world of possibilities and potential. However, the dreams remain confined to this personal realm and are never played out on the public stage. This discrepancy highlights the inherent tension between personal desires and societal expectations. The speaker must therefore navigate the complexities of reconciling their individual dreams with the reality of the external world.

• Metaphor: The Queue of Life

The third stanza introduces the metaphor of the queue or line. This symbolizes the speaker’s prolonged waiting for their turn at life’s opportunities. The word “squatted” underscores the discomfort and duration of their inaction. The comparison of the speaker’s time in the queue to a folkloric snake with no discernible head or tail suggests an interminable wait. This blurs the boundaries between the beginning and end. In addition, the speaker’s life is a perpetual state of anticipation. They are always waiting for something to happen but never experiencing the long-awaited change.

Tone and Mood

The tone starts off melancholic and becomes even darker as the poem progresses. This allows the reader to depict a sense of hopelessness from the protagonist. The stagnancy of the snake also allows the reader to experience the failure that the protagonist is experiencing.

Literary Devices

Metaphor: The snake in the poem is a metaphor for the speaker’s stagnant life and unfulfilled dreams. The snake’s lack of movement symbolizes the lack of progress or change in the speaker’s situation.

Imagery: The poem vividly describes various scenes, such as the hunting paw pouncing on a cricket, the creaking and groaning of musasa trees, and the hungry mongrel aiming at the moon. These concrete and sensory images create a strong visual and auditory experience for the reader.

 Personification: The line “Sapless skeletons of musasa trees creak and groan to dusty winds” personifies the trees. It gives them the human qualities of making sounds.

Alliteration: The repeated use of the “s” sound in “snake never stirs” and “starving I keep gnawing down” creates a musical quality and emphasizes the speaker’s feelings of stagnation and hunger.

Repetition: The phrase “So many” is repeated twice in the poem. This emphasizes the speaker’s sense of abundance or abundance of time spent waiting and dreaming.

Contrast: The poem contrasts the speaker’s privately imagined happy endings with the lack of fulfillment on the “public stage.” This contrast creates a sense of frustration and disappointment.

Symbolism: The act of squatting in a queue represents the speaker’s patient waiting for something to happen or for their turn to come. It symbolizes the speaker’s endurance and perseverance in the face of stagnation.

Motif: The recurring motif of the snake emphasizes the speaker’s longing for change. Once the snake stirs, there is hope that there will be change, and then the speaker will be able to move out of their stagnation. As such, through the motif of the snake, the poet reflects on the stagnant nature of the speaker’s life and the persistent hunger for unfulfilled dreams. The poem thus captures a sense of frustration, longing, and a desire for movement and change.

Private Affair

The poem “Private Affair” captures a raw and vivid moment of shared intimacy and vulnerability amidst the stark reality of poverty and struggle. The poet explores themes of human dignity, resilience, and the longing for a better future. Through the act of defecation, the poem touches upon the universal human experience and delves into deeper socio-political commentary. There are several themes and imagery that are explored in the poem:

Themes

• Poverty

The poem begins with a scene unfolding in the gloom of dusk. The two individuals, stooped amongst the bushes a mere meter apart, are engaged in a private affair. In addition, they are relieving themselves, emptying their bowels of the precious food they had savored the night before. The stench of their excrement awakens the green-bomber flies, who blindly and relentlessly swarm around their faces. This disturbing picture serves as a potent metaphor for the oppressive conditions they endure.

Underlying the explicit focus on defecation, the poet’s use of vivid imagery serves as a metaphor for broader societal struggles. The stench and flies symbolize the pervasive poverty, hunger, and despair that cast a shadow over everyday life. The act of defecation becomes a powerful symbol of vulnerability and shared humanity. Through this visceral portrayal, the poet challenges the reader to confront and empathize with the struggles faced by marginalized communities.

• Hope

In this vulnerable moment, the two individuals lament the wasteful nature of digestion and envy dogs, who can replenish their starving bellies with vomit. The act of defecating becomes a point of reflection and camaraderie. They exchange fantasies and reminisce about the comforts of home, indulging in a shared nostalgia. Through their conversation, they transport themselves to a future where the struggles and suffering will be resolved. They imagine a time when shitting will regain its status as a private, pleasurable affair, complete with magazines and soft tissue paper to soothe their bottoms. Furthermore, they also imagine a time when they will be able to go back home.

The poem gives voice to the voiceless and brings attention to the hidden aspects of poverty and social injustice. By exploring the intimate and private act of defecation, the poet challenges societal norms and conventions. The poem illuminates the stark contrast between the unmet needs and aspirations of individuals and the unjust social system that perpetuates their suffering.

• Revolution and Change

The poem encapsulates the deep desire for a revolution that promises a better life. The phrase “The revolution would not socialize shitting” becomes a rallying cry for the poet and underscores the need for fundamental social change. By emphasizing that even the most private and basic bodily functions are impacted by the prevailing social order, the poet highlights the urgent need for a revolution that would not only address systemic issues but also restore personal dignity and privacy.

• Collectivism

The poem highlights the value of shared experiences and the potential for collective action. The intimacy and camaraderie forged through the exchange of stories, dreams, and laughter amidst difficult circumstances reflect the human spirit’s resilience even in the face of adversity. The poet reminds us that despite the oppressive conditions they face, hope, laughter, and visions of a better future persist.

Tone and Mood

The poem evokes both humor and sadness due to the poet’s ability to use an unserious topic as the centre of the poem. The reader can laugh at the shared moment between the two protagonists in the poem, before being jolted back to the reality that has led to people defecating in the bush because of difficult socio-economic conditions.

Literary Devices

Imagery: The poem uses vivid descriptions to create strong mental images, such as “emptying our bowels,” “stench awakening sleepy green-bomber flies,” and “steaming shit.”

Metaphor: The comparison of dogs refilling their bellies with vomit to the speaker’s envy represents a metaphor for finding nourishment and satisfaction in unconventional ways.

Irony: The speaker laments the loss of privacy that comes with the struggle and suffering of their current situation, emphasizing the irony of their longing for a private affair while openly discussing their bodily functions.

Symbolism: The act of shitting is used as a symbol for basic human needs and desires. It also is a struggle for dignity and better conditions.

Humor: The poem incorporates humor through the juxtaposition of the seriousness of the situation with the absurdity of discussing and laughing about it.

Mafaiti – he loved to pluck a louse

The poem “Mafaiti – he loved to pluck a louse” explores the peculiar obsession of the titular character with picking lice from his comrades’ hair. The speaker reflects on Mafaiti’s skill and enthusiasm, highlighting his deep longing for his wife and son, who were left behind in pursuit of a higher calling. The poem touches upon themes of sacrifice, longing, and the brutality of war, and these are discussed below:

Themes

• Sacrifice

Mafaiti’s abandonment of his wife and son in pursuit of a higher calling exemplifies the sacrifices made by soldiers during times of war. His dedication to his comrades is symbolized by his meticulous lice picking, an act of care and camaraderie among fellow soldiers. As such, his sacrifice extends to caring for all those around him even though he is far from his family.

• Longing

Mafaiti’s deep longing for his wife and son is a prominent theme throughout the poem. His connection with them is represented by his reminiscing about his family while performing a seemingly disgusting task. The speaker, inspired by Mafaiti’s devotion, also develops a sense of longing for his own loved ones, and also of Mafaiti’s wife and son to express how great a soldier Mafaiti was.

• Brutality of war

The poem reveals the harsh realities of war, as indicated by the starved bodies and the constant presence of lice. The act of squeezing the louse, despite its repulsive nature, becomes a moment of respite and connection amidst the carnage. This exploration of paradox adds depth to the portrayal of war.

Tone and Mood

The poem’s tone alternates between nostalgia and horror, presenting a compelling blend of emotions. The nostalgic tone arises from Mafaiti’s wistful remembrance of his family, contrasting with the horror of war and the grotesque act of plucking lice. The poet masterfully intertwines these contrasting elements, evoking a complex emotional response in the reader.

The louse serves as a powerful symbol in the poem, representing the burdens and struggles that soldiers endure. The lice thrive on their starved bodies, reflecting the toll that war takes on them physically and emotionally. Furthermore, the act of plucking the louse becomes a symbol of temporary relief and connection, providing a brief respite from the harsh realities of war.

Literary Devices

Poem length: The poem consists of several paragraphs of different lengths thus lacking distinct stanzas. This lack of formal structure reflects the chaos and disarray of war, allowing the reader to experience the protagonist’s thoughts and emotions.

Language: The language employed in the poem is simple, yet vivid, capturing the reader’s attention and immersing them in the narrator’s experience. The use of slang words such as “pluck,” “skilfully,” and “plop” adds a sense of realism and authenticity, grounding the narrative in the context of the soldiers’ daily lives. The colloquial tone contrasts with the underlying themes of longing and loss, creating an interesting juxtaposition.

Imagery: The most striking aspect of the poem is the vivid imagery used to describe Mafaiti’s obsession with lice. The image of his “skilfully parted twangy hair” and the visceral description of the louse being squeezed and squashed emphasises the physicality and grotesqueness of war. The juxtaposition of hunger and abundance further highlights the irony and brutality of the soldiers’ existence, where lice can flourish on starved bodies.

Uprooted Tuber

“Uprooted Tuber” is a thought-provoking poem that delves deep into the themes of identity, displacement, and the yearning for a sense of home. The speaker expresses disdain for their ancestral home, symbolized by a colony of toadstools, only to find solace and protection amidst the chaos of war and wilderness.

Theme

• Identity and Belonging

The poem explores the themes of identity and belonging as the speaker grapples with conflicting emotions towards their ancestral home. Initially, the speaker despises the toadstool colony, perceiving it as a source of shame and inadequacy. This suggests a disconnection from their cultural heritage and possibly a desire to assimilate into a more modern, urban lifestyle represented by “craving brick and zinc.”

• War and Survival

However, the experiences of war and survival transform the speaker’s perception. The bullets, bush, and weather serve as a turning point, prompting a newfound appreciation for their roots. The speaker’s nostalgia for the “warm rondavels” suggests a longing for the familiarity and comfort that was once rejected.

• The Self

In this context, the “uprooted tuber” symbolizes the speaker’s fragmented sense of self. It suggests that the speaker no longer feels a complete connection to either their ancestral home or their adopted environment. The possibility of returning to the dust and cinders implies that an anticipated homecoming may ultimately result in a perpetual state of displacement and alienation.

Mood and Tone

Ultimately, the poem leaves the reader with a sense of unresolved tension. The speaker’s contemplation of a potential return to their roots raises questions about the possibility of finding a true sense of belonging. “

Literary Devices

Poem Length: The poem consists of four short stanzas, presenting a stream of consciousness narrative. Each line varies in length, reflecting the chaotic emotions and shifting thoughts of the speaker. The stanzaic breaks emphasize the broken connection between the speaker’s past and present feelings of displacement. Additionally, the poem’s free verse structure allows for a more personal and introspective exploration of the themes.

Symbolism and Imagery: The poet skillfully employs symbolism and imagery to convey the poem’s central ideas. The “conspiring colony of toadstools” represents the speaker’s ancestral home, which they despise due to its perceived lack of progress and modernity. The mud-supported logs allude to the traditional constructions, while the “conical grass caps” suggest a sense of innocent childlike simplicity.

Metaphor: The “bullets, bush, and weather” function as a metaphor for the chaos and hardships faced by the speaker. These elements serve as catalysts, transforming their feelings towards their roots. The contrasting imagery of “warm rondavels” being replaced by the “dust and cinders” signifies the impact of war and the destruction of their familiar surroundings. Through the imagery of a “tuber uprooted and tossed onto arid rock,” the poet encapsulates the speaker’s profound sense of displacement and helplessness. It conveys the harsh reality of being torn away from one’s cultural and geographic roots.

Rufaro – Cheering Ourselves

The poem Rufaro – Cheering Ourselves encapsulates a moment of collective celebration and defiance. This highlights the resilience of the Zimbabwean people. Through its vivid imagery, symbolic elements, and exploration of several themes, the poem evokes a sense of hope and triumph:

Themes

• Unity and Triumph

The poem explores unity and triumph. This is done through an emphasis of the unity and collective victory of the people. The gathering at Rufaro signifies a shared experience of triumph and the hope for a better future as people are celebrating the newly liberated country and the departure of their colonisers.

• Defiance and Resilience

The defeated energy and frustrating plans mentioned in the poem represent the resilience of the people even in the face of adversity. The celebration becomes an act of defiance against those who sought to oppress them.

• Cultural Identity

The use of whistling, ululating, and references to a great Zimbabwe highlight the importance of cultural identity in the celebration. After the departure of the colonisers, Zimbabweans are able to identify with their culture and their roots. The poem thus celebrates the lost and the living and reinforces a sense of national pride.

Mood and Tone

From the title, “Rufaro – cheering ourselves”, a tone of celebration and joy is highlighted outright. Several words within the poem, including “victor”, “jeer”, “the bird broke free”, “whistling”, and “ululating” all highlight the varying stages of joy experienced within the poem.

Literary Devices

Poem Length: The poem consists of several stanzas with varying line lengths. The irregular structure creates a sense of urgency and unpredictability. It also reflects the intense emotions of the speaker and the group gathered at Rufaro. The uneven line lengths also mirror the diverse voices coming together in a unified act of celebration.

Imagery: The poet uses vivid imagery to bring the scene to life. The reference to a defeated energy planning to frustrate suggests a resilient spirit against opposition. The description of the jack heavy with fat and blood slumping down the flagpole like a punctured tick is a powerful metaphor representing the downfall of a corrupt regime or system. The use of bird and stone imagery highlights the transformation and liberation experienced by the Zimbabwean people.

Symbolism

• The Jack: The jack symbolizes the oppressive regime or corrupt system. The prince carrying the jack to his mother on an island suggests the removal of power and authority from those who have abused it.
• The Island: The island where the sun sets represents a new beginning, a place where justice and freedom can be realized.
• The Flag: The new flag symbolizes the rebirth of Zimbabwe. It becomes a source of pride and unity for all the people, regardless of their past struggles.
• The poem consists of several stanzas with varying line lengths. The irregular structure creates a sense of urgency and unpredictability, reflecting the intense emotions of the speaker and the group gathered at Rufaro. The uneven line lengths also mirror the diverse voices coming together in a unified act of celebration.
• The poet uses vivid imagery to bring the scene to life. The reference to a defeated energy planning to frustrate suggests a resilient spirit against opposition. The description of the jack heavy with fat and blood slumping down the flagpole like a punctured tick is a powerful metaphor representing the downfall of a corrupt regime or system. The use of bird and stone imagery highlights the transformation and liberation experienced by the Zimbabwean people.

The Mirror Stares Back

The poem “The Mirror Stares Back” explores a powerful and transformative encounter between two individuals. One of them is forced to confront the harsh realities of war and its effects on personal identity. In just a few lines, the poem captures the tension, vulnerability, and resilience of those involved.

Themes

• Socio-Political Context:

To fully understand the poem, we must first situate it within its socio-political context. “The mirror stares back” is infused with references to Chimoio, and this is a Mozambican town that played a vital role during Zimbabwe’s struggle for independence against British colonial rule. The mention of female comrades and the phrase “hair shaven by lice” suggests the presence of guerrilla fighters, highlighting the poet’s association with the liberation movement.

• Identity

The poem explores shifting personal identity in the context of war. The phrase “This is the man that used to be” alludes to the transformation that the individual has undergone due to the exigencies of war. Despite the horrors reflected in the mirror, the narrator asserts that the individual remains a comrade who will continue to fight. This emphasizes the resilience and determination to maintain their identity.

• Camaraderie and Solidarity

The meeting of “female comrades” highlights the importance of solidarity and mutual support during times of struggle. The shared experience with these fellow fighters brings about a moment of respite, evident in the reference to “comic relief.” Unity and cooperation become sources of strength amidst the hardships of war.

• Intersectional Feminism

The inclusion of female comrades in the poem challenges traditional patriarchal notions of war and revolution. By acknowledging the presence and contribution of women fighters, the poem raises questions about gender roles and equality within the liberation movement. It gives agency to women and highlights their role in shaping the narrative of resistance.

• War’s Impact on Identity

The poem speaks to the psychological and physical impacts of war on individuals. The shattered self-perception evident in the mirror is a consequence of the violence and trauma experienced. This analysis explores the theme of identity loss and its transformation under extreme circumstances.

• Political Commentary

The poem can be seen as a critique of the dehumanizing effects of war. The unsettling image in the reflection highlights the atrocities suffered by those involved. The reflection serves as a commentary on the external brutality and internal struggle, posing larger questions about the morality and consequences of warfare.

Literary Devices

Personification: The title itself sets the tone for the poem by personifying the mirror, suggesting that it possesses agency and intent. The mirror becomes an active participant in the encounter, not simply a passive reflective surface. This personification contributes to the poem’s exploration of self-identity and self-perception.

Metaphors: The description of the reflection reveals the physical toll of war on individuals. The shaven hair, taut skin, and retreating eyes depict a person in distress. The cracked lips, metaphorically “shocked splattered,” not only allude to physical suffering but also to the profound emotional trauma experienced by the individual.

Petals of the Unknown

The poem “Petals of the Unknown” explores themes of societal status, mortality, and the importance of personal accomplishments. The speaker reflects on their humble existence and lack of material wealth, highlighting their marginalized position in society. The poem also emphasizes the desire for a lasting legacy and recognition.

Themes

• Societal Status and Personal Accomplishments

The contrast between the speaker’s lack of material wealth and their appreciation for the “human experience” is an important theme in the poem. It highlights the value of personal growth, empathy, and the impact one can have on others, regardless of social status or material possessions. The speaker, though devoid of recognition and success in the eyes of society, still finds solace and satisfaction in the impact they have had on others.

• Mortality

The theme of mortality is also present in the poem. The speaker muses about their own death and the eventual anonymity they will face. The mention of not being entombed at any heroes’ acre or having their name recorded in any history book suggests a longing for remembrance and a fear of being forgotten. The poem, therefore, questions the nature of legacy and the lasting impact one can have in the face of mortality.

Mood and Tone

The mood of the poem is somber and reflective. The speaker expresses a sense of resignation and acceptance of their circumstances. They are aware of their insignificance in the grand scheme of things, yet they still hold on to the value of their personal experiences and contributions. The poem also carries a tone of melancholy and a subtle hint of bitterness. The speaker portrays themselves as an outsider, constantly denied the opportunities for success and recognition. There is a sense of frustration in their voice as they express their longing for a place in history and a desire for their name to be remembered.

Literary Devices

Imagery: The imagery used throughout the poem is powerful and evocative. For example, in the lines “At work I am stuck at bottom like lead in light liquid,” the speaker uses a simile to compare their position at work to a heavy object sinking in a liquid, emphasizing their lack of progress and upward mobility. This imagery effectively portrays their feeling of being trapped and exploited.

Repetition: The phrase “tomb of the unknown soldier” is repeated multiple times, emphasizing the speaker’s desire for recognition and remembrance. This repeated phrase also creates a sense of rhythm and a haunting quality to the poem.

Symbolism: The poem also contains symbolism, particularly in the mention of the “petals”. The use of the word “petals” suggests fragile beauty symbolizing the fleeting moments and experiences that the speaker cherishes. The scattering of petals by the son is a symbolic act of remembrance and honoring the speaker and their comrades.