The Real Poetry

The poem “The Real Poetry” is a powerful and evocative piece that delves into themes of resistance, violence, and struggle in the context of colonialism and oppression in Africa. The poet captures the pain, courage, and resilience of the people fighting against colonization and exploitation.

Themes

• Struggle and Resistance

One of the central themes in the poem is that real poetry is born out of struggle and resistance. The poet contrasts the traditional notion of poetry as something beautiful and refined with a new, more gritty conception of poetry that emerges from the harsh realities of oppression. The poem suggests that true poetry is not just about aesthetics or personal expression. It is also about reflecting the lived experiences of the marginalized and oppressed.

• Violence and Suffering

The poem also explores the theme of violence and suffering, highlighting the brutal consequences of colonization and imperialism in Africa. The poet describes the “red streams” of blood shed by those resisting the violence of “Effective Occupation,” referencing the atrocities committed by colonial powers in their quest for domination. The poet vividly portrays the physical and emotional toll of this violence on the African people. The chains and whips of slavery further portray the massacres and betrayals in various African countries.

Mood and Tone

The poem’s mood is sombre and reflective, with a sense of mourning for the suffering endured by the African people. The language used is intense and emotive, conveying a deep sense of outrage and defiance in the face of oppression. The poem does not shy away from showing the harsh realities of colonialism. This is because it presents a stark portrait of the violence and injustice that has plagued Africa for centuries.

In terms of tone, the poem is impassioned and defiant. This is because of the anger and indignation at the injustices inflicted upon African people. Further, the poet adopts a bold and assertive voice. This challenges the Eurocentric notions of poetry and art while celebrating the resilience and courage of those who resist oppression. In addition, the poem is a call to arms, urging the African people to rise up and fight for their freedom and dignity.

Literary Devices

Metaphor: The poem uses metaphors to compare the violence and oppression experienced by African people to poetry. For example, “The real poetry tie / Was carved across centuries of chains and whips” uses the metaphor of poetry to describe the enduring struggles of African people.

Imagery: The poem employs vivid imagery to depict the pain and suffering of the oppressed. Lines such as “The real poetry / Is sweat scouring down / The baked valley of the peasant’s back” create a strong visual image of the physical toll of labor and oppression.

Alliteration: The poem uses alliteration to enhance its poetic rhythm and create emphasis on certain words or phrases. For example, “Its beat was the bones in Bissau” uses alliteration on the “b” sound to draw attention to the violence and brutality in that region.

Personification: The poem personifies poetry as a living entity that exists in the struggles and resistance of the people. This personification adds depth and emotion to the poem’s portrayal of the ongoing fight for freedom and justice.

Symbolism: The poem uses symbolic language to represent larger themes of colonialism and resistance. For example, references to specific events such as “killings in Katanga” and “betrayals of Mau-Mau” symbolise the broader history of oppression and violence experienced by African people. This poem paints a stark and haunting picture of the degradation and desperation that has overtaken a once-thriving land.

Imagery: The imagery evoked by the uprooted baobab tree, the decaying elephant skeleton, and the barren blue skies creates a sense of desolation and hopelessness. Further, the juxtaposition of the baby heaving bones against its skin highlights the harsh reality of survival in this harsh and unforgiving landscape.

Neither Fruit nor Shelter

The poem “Neither Fruit nor Shelter” seeks to convey the devastating impact of colonialism and environmental destruction on African nations. It paints a bleak picture of a continent ravaged by exploitation and neglect. Further, it also describes a continent where hope is in short supply and survival is a daily struggle. The use of vivid imagery and powerful language evokes a strong emotional response in the reader. This helps in driving home the harsh realities faced by many in Africa.

Themes

• Loss and Decay

The theme of loss and decay is prevalent throughout the poem. The baobab tree, once a symbol of life and sustenance, now offers neither fruit nor shelter. The elephant, a majestic and powerful creature, is reduced to a dusty skeleton stripped of its horns and hide. The imagery of these once vibrant and powerful beings now reduced to mere remnants of their former selves conveys a sense of loss and devastation.

• Desperation and Survival

The theme of desperation and survival is also evident in the poem. The baby, portrayed as fragile and vulnerable, scavenges for sustenance amidst the decay and destruction. The mention of “foreign lands” suggests a reliance on outside aid and assistance. This therefore highlights the struggle of the continent to provide for its people. The image of the continent as a “moaning monster” further echoes the idea of desperation and despair. The continent is therefore depicted as a creature in pain and need.

• Powerlessness

The theme of powerlessness and exploitation is another key aspect of the poem. The mention of the continent holding out a bowl to foreign lands to feed its babies speaks to the imbalance of power and resources. This is because it is reliant on the charity of others to survive. It also conveys a sense of helplessness and exploitation. The mention of desires being distorted and hopes mutilated further emphasizes the idea of a people who have been stripped of agency and autonomy.

Mood and Tone

The mood of the poem is sombre, bleak, and hopeless. The imagery of decaying roots, dusty skeletons, and barren skies creates a sense of despair and desolation. The poem’s tone is resigned and weary, reflecting the speaker’s acceptance of the harsh reality of their situation. There is a sense of resignation and helplessness in the face of overwhelming destruction and loss.

Literary Devices

Symbolism: The uprooted baobab tree symbolises the destruction of nature and the loss of traditional ways of life in Africa. The dead elephant represents the loss of wildlife and the impact of poaching and environmental degradation. The baby struggling to survive alongside these images symbolises the vulnerability and resilience of the African people.

Personification: The use of personification, such as describing the continent as a “moaning monster” and a “child suckling children in foreign lands,” adds a sense of unease and discomfort to the poem. It highlights the twisted and distorted relationships between African nations and the rest of the world. This is because African resources are exploited and people are left to fend for themselves.

Repetition: The repetition of the phrase “neither fruit nor shelter” emphasizes the lack of sustenance and protection in this harsh environment, underscoring the struggle for survival faced by the African people. The contrast between the once majestic elephant and the pathetic baby further highlights the themes of loss and decay.

Years After

The poem “Years After” is a powerful and thought-provoking poem. It urges readers to reflect on their past actions, acknowledge the consequences of their choices, and embrace their cultural heritage as a source of strength and guidance. In addition, the poem’s themes, mood, and tone work together to create a sense of urgency and introspection. This helps to challenge readers to confront uncomfortable truths and strive for a more meaningful and empowered existence.

Themes

• Consequences

One of the key themes in the poem is the passage of time and the consequences of past actions. The speaker looks back on “the stones and revolutions” that have taken place in the past and laments the lack of progress and growth that has occurred since then. The reference to “grandmother’s dusty granary” suggests a lack of abundance or growth. It also allows the speaker to question what has been gathered and stored over the years. This theme underscores the idea that time has passed without significant improvement or development. Further, this leads to a sense of stagnation and disillusionment.

• Self-Destruction and Corruption

Another important theme in the poem is the idea of self-destruction and corruption. The speaker highlights how individuals and society have become complicit in their downfall, as they have allowed themselves to be exploited and degraded. The reference to “chains and more chains” symbolises how people have been shackled by their actions and choices, leading to a cycle of oppression and subjugation. This theme serves as a warning about the dangers of complacency and collective apathy. It therefore calls for a renewed sense of agency and empowerment to break free from these chains.

• Reconnection with Roots

The poem also explores the idea of reconnection with one’s roots and heritage. The speaker emphasizes the importance of rediscovering and reclaiming one’s identity, history, and traditions to move forward with purpose and clarity. The reference to the baobab tree and the Elephant Trail symbolise the idea of drawing strength and guidance from the natural world and the wisdom of the past. Further, this theme speaks to the idea of finding strength and inspiration in one’s cultural heritage and ancestral legacy. This will help in using this knowledge to shape a more meaningful and fulfilling future.

Mood and Tone

The mood of the poem is reflective and somber. The speaker looks back on the events of the past and the current state of affairs with a sense of regret and disappointment. The tone is contemplative and urgent, as the speaker calls for a reckoning with the past and a reevaluation of the present to secure a better future.

Literary Devices

Imagery: The references to “stones and revolutions,” “chains and more chains,” and “baobab pass” create vivid and evocative images that capture the reader’s attention and evoke a sense of history and tradition. The use of imagery, such as “dusty granary” and “father’s kraal,” evokes a sense of nostalgia and tradition. The speaker reflects on the state of their community, lamenting the loss of values and the spread of corruption.

Symbolism: The use of the Milky Way as a symbol of connection and continuity underscores the idea of finding meaning and direction in the vastness of the universe.

Repetition: The repetition of phrases such as “years after” and “let’s” adds a rhythmic quality to the poem, enhancing its musicality and emphasis.

Metaphor: The metaphor of the grandmother’s granary symbolises the accumulation of wealth and resources over time. Instead of prosperity, the speaker finds only “chains and more chains” binding the continent. This therefore represents the legacy of colonization and oppression.

Juxtaposition: The poem also uses juxtaposition, contrasting the image of a grown woman enriched by her family with the degradation of society into pimps and corruption.

Umbilical Code Bleeds

The poem “Umbilical code bleeds” creates a powerful and evocative portrait of the struggle for freedom. The use of intense imagery, metaphor, and symbolism help to convey the themes of suffering, resistance, and resilience that run throughout the poem. Furthemore, the dark and oppressive mood, coupled with the accusatory tone, serves to highlight the injustices and hardships faced by those living under oppressive conditions.

Themes

• Oppression and struggle

The poem depicts a grim and oppressive reality where individuals crawl, creep, and lick boots to survive. The mention of kids starving and spouses being naked highlights the struggle for basic necessities.

• Dehumanization

 The imagery of crawling, creeping, and licking boots suggests a loss of humanity and dignity. The mention of individuals imbibing dust like worms further emphasizes this dehumanization.

• Injustice

The poem hints at a society with skewed power dynamics. This is because one group forces another to submit and endure mistreatment. The mention of the boot that kicks if one dares stop implies a sense of injustice and cruelty.

Mood and Tone

The mood of the poem is bleak and despairing, characterized by a sense of hopelessness and oppression. The tone is grim and stark, conveying a sense of injustice and dehumanization. The use of harsh and impactful language contributes to the overall mood and tone of the poem.

Literary Devices

Imagery: The poem uses vivid and powerful imagery to depict the oppressive reality faced by the individuals in the poem. Images of crawling, creeping, and licking boots create a strong visual impact and evoke a sense of suffering and degradation.

Metaphor: The umbilical code bleeding stands as a metaphor for the pain and suffering experienced by the individuals in the poem. It symbolises a deep and profound wound that cannot be easily healed.

Repetition: The repetition of phrases such as “umbilical code bleeds” and “crawls and creeps” emphasizes the sense of oppression and degradation faced by the individuals in the poem. It creates a rhythmic effect and reinforces the themes of struggle and dehumanization.

Symbolism: The mention of the boot that kicks if one dares stop symbolises power and oppression. It represents the forces in society that keep individuals down and prevent them from standing upright and walking freely.

Marrow

The poem “Marrow” by Yeukai delves into deep and complex themes of identity, colonialism, and nostalgia. Through vivid imagery and evocative language, the poet explores the cultural and psychological impact of colonization on the collective psyche of a people. The poem has five distinct sections. Each helps to offer a unique perspective on the legacy of colonialism and its lasting effects.

Part I

In the first section of the poem, the speaker reflects on the disconnection from their cultural heritage caused by centuries of colonization. The opening lines, “Talk! What can we talk about? we whose ancestors boast no originality no recorded discovery invention of philosophy,” set the tone for a lament of lost history and identity. The speaker laments the erasure of their ancestors’ achievements. They also lament the replacement of their traditional language and customs with those of the colonizer. The use of the word “Marrow” in the title suggests that the poet is attempting to get to the core or essence of their identity, perhaps to reclaim it from the forces of colonization.

The speaker’s frustration is palpable. This is evident when they describe how their people have been taught to revere the colonizer’s culture and language over their own. The line “we denied history and heroes save savagery and terror” highlights the way in which colonial narratives have dehumanized and marginalized indigenous peoples, reducing them to stereotypes and caricatures. The poet uses stark language to convey a sense of betrayal and loss. This helps the speaker in mourning the destruction of their cultural heritage.

The second section of the first part shifts focus to a more personal and nostalgic tone. Here, the speaker recalls their childhood fantasies and dreams. The imagery of the “obese snow-bearded old white man” and Rudolf carrying presents across the Sahara evokes the innocence and wonder of childhood beliefs. The speaker’s memories of playing in the bushes and imagining a life of luxury in a mansion with a pool and a dream car reveal a yearning for a simpler time, free from the complexities and traumas of colonial history.

The juxtaposition of these two sections creates a powerful contrast between the weight of colonial legacy and the lightness of childhood innocence. The poet skillfully weaves together themes of loss, longing, and resilience. This is important in capturing the bittersweet complexity of reclaiming one’s identity in the face of historical trauma. The poem’s title, “Marrow,” suggests that this process of reclaiming and rediscovering one’s cultural roots is essential to understanding and healing from the wounds of colonization.

In terms of literary devices, the poet employs vivid imagery, metaphor, and allusion to convey the themes and emotions of the poem. The use of contrasting images such as the “obese snow-bearded old white man” and the “green years” helps to create a sense of tension and complexity in the narrative. The repetition of the word “we” throughout the poem serves to underscore the collective experience of colonization and the shared struggle for identity and agency.

Part II

The second part of the poem is a poignant exploration of the themes of transition, loss, and the passage of time. Through vivid imagery, personification, and symbolism, the speaker conveys a sense of melancholy and introspection. This is because they reflect on the changing seasons and the impact it has on the natural world. The sombre mood and reflective tone of the poem invite the reader to contemplate their own experiences of change and loss. This helps in making it a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant piece of poetry.

The second part is rich with literary devices that enhance the mood and tone of the poem. Imagery is used throughout the poem to vividly depict the desolate landscape and the impact of the changing seasons. The use of storks, sparrows, gnarled trees, and parched heavens creates a visual picture of a barren and lifeless environment. The image of grass and leaves scattered prostrate on last year’s dust conveys a sense of decay and abandonment. The mention of cicadas dying when summer left further emphasizes the finality of the changing seasons.

Personification also gives life to the natural world. The storks and sparrows are described as visiting and stealing summer to the north, suggesting a sense of movement and agency. The trees are personified as gnarled and goring the barren belly of the parched heavens, highlighting their rugged and aggressive nature. The use of personification adds depth and emotion to the descriptions of the natural world in the poem.

Symbolism helps to convey deeper meanings. The mention of cicadas dying when summer left can be seen as a symbol of the passage of time and the inevitability of change. Cicadas are often associated with the sound of summer, so their absence signifies the end of the season. The breaking of bones and penetrating deep inside the flesh can be interpreted as a symbol of delving into the deeper layers of experience and emotions. The marrow represents the essence or core of something, suggesting a process of introspection and reflection.

Part III

One of the key themes in this part is the tension between progress and tradition. The mention of the “nineties of democracy and super highway” suggests a time of rapid modernization and technological advancements, yet the speaker laments how this progress is being imposed on them, stifling their voice and erasing the traditions of their ancestors. The super highway symbolises this relentless march towards modernity. This modernity threatens to steamroll over the heritage and identity of the speaker’s community.

This part also explores the theme of censorship and oppression. The line “they want you to shut up even as they scald your skin” conveys a sense of violence and silencing, as those in power seek to suppress dissent and maintain control. This image of physical harm reinforces the idea that speaking out against injustice comes with risks. However, the speaker refuses to be silenced, choosing to confront the powers that seek to oppress them.

The mention of the grandmother’s barefoot kicking the dust on her way to the field is a poignant reminder of the generational divide at play in the poem. The grandmother represents a connection to the past and the land. As such, her simple, traditional way of life contrasts sharply with the fast-paced, modern world of superhighways and democracy. The image of her foot kicking the dust symbolises resilience and vulnerability. This helps to highlight how traditional ways of life are marginalized and eroded by the forces of progress.

In terms of literary devices, the part employs vivid imagery and metaphor to convey its themes. The description of the highway “whizzing by unseen and unheard by your grandmother” paints a stark picture of the disconnect between the rapid pace of modernity and the slower, more grounded rhythms of rural life. The juxtaposition of the highway with the grandmother’s dusty path serves as a metaphor for the clash between tradition and progress, highlighting how modern advancements can leave certain communities behind.

The use of repetition in the line “Exactly Yeukai” serves to emphasize the speaker’s point, reinforcing the idea that they will not be silenced or ignored. The naming of Yeukai also adds a personal touch to the poem. This is because it grounds it in a specific individual’s experience of oppression and struggle.

Part IV

This part explores the themes of violence, forgiveness, justice, and reparations in the context of historical atrocities and injustices. Particular focus is on the comparison between Africa and other nations such as Germany and Japan.

One of the key themes in this part is violence. This is portrayed as a pervasive force that has shaped societies and histories. The speaker notes that violence was the driving force behind the discovery of Christ, the process of civilization, and the ongoing dependence on violence. This suggests a cyclical nature of violence, where it begets more violence, perpetuating a cycle of harm and suffering. The mention of Christ also adds a religious dimension to the theme of violence. This helps in suggesting a twisted connection between faith and violence.

The poem also explores the theme of forgiveness, particularly in the context of Africa. The speaker calls for Africa to forgive and forget, implying a desire to move on from past traumas and conflicts. However, the comparison to the Nuremberg trials highlights the complex nature of forgiveness and justice. The speaker criticizes the lack of reparations and compensation in Africa, contrasting it with the actions taken by Germany and Japan to address their past atrocities. This juxtaposition underscores the idea that forgiveness alone is not enough. It highlights that there must also be tangible actions taken to acknowledge and redress past wrongs.

The mood of the poem is heavy and contemplative. This is because the speaker grapples with the weight of history and the lingering effects of violence and injustice. The imagery of “the fair lady of justice tears the blindfold from her eyes” evokes a sense of disillusionment with the concept of justice, suggesting that true justice is often elusive or biased. The reference to “time and senility not mitigating” highlights the urgency of addressing past wrongs. As such, the effects of violence and injustice continue to impact individuals and communities long after the fact.

In terms of literary devices, the part employs repetition and parallel structure to emphasize the cyclical nature of violence. The repeated use of the word “violence” in the opening lines creates a sense of relentless force. This helps in driving home the idea that violence is a pervasive and inescapable aspect of human history.

Part V

This part is a stark commentary on the state of Africa in the years following various revolutions and conflicts. The speaker reflects on the current state of the continent. As such, they are lamenting the lack of progress and the continued reliance on foreign aid and assistance. The tone of the poem is critical and disillusioned. This helps in highlighting the power struggles, corruption, and lack of true independence that have plagued Africa.

One of the central themes in this part of the poem is the idea of power and greed. The speaker describes how individuals, from peasants to politicians, are all vying for power and control, often at the expense of others. The image of people “pulling up friend and clan” and “pissing and shitting on those below” paints a picture of a society in chaos, where selfish motivations reign supreme. This theme is further emphasized by the mention of politicians who prioritize their interests over serving their constituents. In addition, the reference to “pillaging politicians” suggests a sense of corruption and exploitation.

Another theme that emerges in the poem is the idea of dependence and exploitation. The speaker describes how Africa lies “obscene on her back,” tethered to various countries and regions around the world. The mention of aid from the east, west, and north suggests that Africa is reliant on external support, and the reference to being “clutching at straws and fireflies” implies a sense of desperation and vulnerability. This theme of dependence underscores the lack of autonomy and agency that Africa has in this situation, highlighting the unequal power dynamics at play.

The mood of the poem is one of frustration and disillusionment. The speaker’s tone is critical and harsh. This is because they highlight the various ways in which Africa has been failed by its leaders and its allies. The use of imagery, such as the description of Africa lying on her back, conveys a sense of helplessness and vulnerability. Furthermore, the repeated references to power struggles and greed create a sense of anger and indignation. This is because the speaker condemns the self-serving behaviour that has contributed to Africa’s current state.

In terms of literary devices, the poem makes use of vivid imagery to convey its message. The image of people “swarm[ing] to the top” and “pulling up friend and clan” evokes a sense of chaos and competition, while the description of Africa being tethered to various regions creates a powerful visual of the continent’s lack of independence. The use of metaphors, such as comparing Africa to a black oxen stampede, adds depth and complexity to the poem, allowing for multiple layers of interpretation.