Subseries 5.2.5 - Is Black Poetry Valid?

Open original Digital object

Identity area

Reference code

ZA MEDU MEDU-5-5.2-5.2.5

Title

Is Black Poetry Valid?

Date(s)

  • 1982 (Creation)

Level of description

Subseries

Extent and medium

5 pages

Context area

Name of creator

(1978-1985)

Administrative history

The Medu Art Ensemble was formed by South Africa exiles in Gaborone, Botswana, in 1978. The organisation produced a wealth of creative work across all major art-forms; the roup further played a key role in shaping aesthetic and cultural theory and praxis within Africanist and liberation struggles. On June 14 1985, the South African Defence Force attacked the homes of Medu members and other activists in Gaborone, killing 12 people; Medu as an organisation ceased to exist.

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Scope and content

Is the concept of "black poetry" valid? James Matthews argues that black poetry has become a powerful force in South Africa. He suggests that poetry by and about the black majority is locally grounded and people no longer look toward America for such inspiration. Matthews draws links between black poetry, black consciousness and black power.

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Permission to publish must be obtained from the Medu Art Ensemble Project.

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