30 September, 2010
The horrors of Hangberg
It’s Monday night of 27 September. Obz Theatre is the right location for the screening of Giant Steps, a film co-directed by Aryan Kaganof and the late Bra' Geoff Mphakati. Before the viewing commences, Kaganof and Dylan Valley, an Afrikaaps documentary director, decide to show us a footage they shot in the community of Hangberg a few days earlier. It shows the aftermath of the police brutality, together with the interviews done with the victims of this violence. Among the interviewees relating terrible ordeals they suffered at the hands of the police, is Ikram Halim. His victimhood is made conspicuous by a patch that covers his left eye, a result he wishes to forget altogether, except he will not.
He tells a frightening story of how he was trying to assist some children flee the terror of the police, who decided to shoot at the residents who had formed an innocuous human barricade. This wall was formed in an attempt to prevent the police from forcefully evicting them from an area the city considers to be a fire break zone.
It's a chilling story of a hero who ended up paying dearly for his bravery. It’s only after all the children that Halim had helped escape had been cleared away from danger, that his own ordeal unfolded. He says a policeman, who was about ten metres away from him, pointed a gun to his face. And without any warning, and for no danger he posed to the Police, a shot ran. It sent him reeling.
The scream of the bullet as it connected with his eye sounded like a whistle. He says it seemed like it had flown past his face, only not. He fell down from the shock and started vomiting. By then his eye had gone, burst into nothingness by the rage of the gun. Some residents came and helped carry him away to safety, but that was too late.
As he relates his story, perhaps digesting what it all means to his life, he sobs and tears stream down from the only eye left. Here is a big man of about 40 years, crying over the loss of a precious eye he has lost to the police.
Another victim who also lost an eye was interviewed. Sadly, I don’t remember her name. She told of her own horrific story that authenticated the gross human rights violations that her community suffered. She counted about four people whom the police had taken their eyes away from them. Apparently, none of these people did anything threatening to suffer such a costly fate.
Another man sits next to Halim. At least he still has both his eyes, but they are in tears; the pain of his community is too much for him to take. His dreadlocks make him a drug dealer, and that suggests he’s a dangerous man. I conclude that’s a terrible stereotype perpetuated even in high offices.
A Zoopy sourced video that’s incorporated into film shows Western Cape Premier, Helen Zille, giving an interview. She shares a theory that a group called Rastas are drug users and often drug peddlers, thus the Hangberg community suffer. This statement the lady with a lost eye vehemently rejects. It all reminds me of the prejudices of a country we live in, where people are judged by how they look. I also remember the amount of gross human rights violations that happens on grassroots levels.
As I look on, absorbing the pain of these victims, my own eyes fill with what feels like a well of tears that could flood the entire Obz Theatre. The feeling gets worse as I get more grateful for having a set to see this world through. Some text appears calling for the resignation of the premier and then the film ends.
After the screening, Valley opens the floor for a short discussion. A few questions come through expressing their shock at the horrors of these incidents. One lady echoes the sentiment of shock too, but at the same time questions the idea behind the call for the premier’s resignation.
Kaganof responds by explaining that the buck stops with her, by virtue of occupying the executive position in the province. He stresses that the responsibility rests with her office as the police are under her direct command.
I raise my hand too. Something about where I had been reminds me of many similar stories, even though they did not lead people to losing their eyes.
My question is simple: Are there any plans to show the film to a wider audience, so that people may start engaging in these types of issues?
I end off by revealing that such occurrences are rampant within townships, and sadly nothing is being done about them.
A response from Valley indicates that plans are in place to take the film to wider audiences.
The questions and answers session ends, and the proceedings point to the showing of the second film, Giant Steps. I stand up to leave; I had seen the film a few times before - remarkable!
I hesitantly walk towards Kaganof and Valley, my hosts, who are concerned that the video operator plays the right file as he seems to struggle a bit. They better understand my need to leave, I think as I approach them with a heavy heart; my well refuses to dry.
They appear not to mind when I tell them of my departure. They thank me for coming, and I bid both of them goodbye. I do so fearful that Bra' Geoff and Bra' Lefifi's voices may stop me in my tracks; that they may express their disappointment in me because they had fought with art in their prime. I’m certain they would want to ask me which weapon I would use to influence change in this supposedly new dispensation.
‘My pen Bra' Geoff and Bra’ Lefifi; my pen!’ I would say.
I'm sure they would smile in approval of my choice, only if I make use of it. Soon after that thought I leave, feeling less conscious of my departure this time. I stride in confidence and take immense pride in my undertaking. Something assures me that I chose just the right tool to protest with – it has a long history after all.
Outside, the Cape night is cold with cynical breeze. It hits me then that some residents of Hangberg have lost their dwellings and could be taunted by the same breeze; perhaps a harsher one because unlike Obz, their living area is not shielded by the mighty Table Mountain.
I leave that space, grieving and depressed.
©Deon Simphiwe Skade
He tells a frightening story of how he was trying to assist some children flee the terror of the police, who decided to shoot at the residents who had formed an innocuous human barricade. This wall was formed in an attempt to prevent the police from forcefully evicting them from an area the city considers to be a fire break zone.
It's a chilling story of a hero who ended up paying dearly for his bravery. It’s only after all the children that Halim had helped escape had been cleared away from danger, that his own ordeal unfolded. He says a policeman, who was about ten metres away from him, pointed a gun to his face. And without any warning, and for no danger he posed to the Police, a shot ran. It sent him reeling.
The scream of the bullet as it connected with his eye sounded like a whistle. He says it seemed like it had flown past his face, only not. He fell down from the shock and started vomiting. By then his eye had gone, burst into nothingness by the rage of the gun. Some residents came and helped carry him away to safety, but that was too late.
As he relates his story, perhaps digesting what it all means to his life, he sobs and tears stream down from the only eye left. Here is a big man of about 40 years, crying over the loss of a precious eye he has lost to the police.
Another victim who also lost an eye was interviewed. Sadly, I don’t remember her name. She told of her own horrific story that authenticated the gross human rights violations that her community suffered. She counted about four people whom the police had taken their eyes away from them. Apparently, none of these people did anything threatening to suffer such a costly fate.
Another man sits next to Halim. At least he still has both his eyes, but they are in tears; the pain of his community is too much for him to take. His dreadlocks make him a drug dealer, and that suggests he’s a dangerous man. I conclude that’s a terrible stereotype perpetuated even in high offices.
A Zoopy sourced video that’s incorporated into film shows Western Cape Premier, Helen Zille, giving an interview. She shares a theory that a group called Rastas are drug users and often drug peddlers, thus the Hangberg community suffer. This statement the lady with a lost eye vehemently rejects. It all reminds me of the prejudices of a country we live in, where people are judged by how they look. I also remember the amount of gross human rights violations that happens on grassroots levels.
As I look on, absorbing the pain of these victims, my own eyes fill with what feels like a well of tears that could flood the entire Obz Theatre. The feeling gets worse as I get more grateful for having a set to see this world through. Some text appears calling for the resignation of the premier and then the film ends.
After the screening, Valley opens the floor for a short discussion. A few questions come through expressing their shock at the horrors of these incidents. One lady echoes the sentiment of shock too, but at the same time questions the idea behind the call for the premier’s resignation.
Kaganof responds by explaining that the buck stops with her, by virtue of occupying the executive position in the province. He stresses that the responsibility rests with her office as the police are under her direct command.
I raise my hand too. Something about where I had been reminds me of many similar stories, even though they did not lead people to losing their eyes.
My question is simple: Are there any plans to show the film to a wider audience, so that people may start engaging in these types of issues?
I end off by revealing that such occurrences are rampant within townships, and sadly nothing is being done about them.
A response from Valley indicates that plans are in place to take the film to wider audiences.
The questions and answers session ends, and the proceedings point to the showing of the second film, Giant Steps. I stand up to leave; I had seen the film a few times before - remarkable!
I hesitantly walk towards Kaganof and Valley, my hosts, who are concerned that the video operator plays the right file as he seems to struggle a bit. They better understand my need to leave, I think as I approach them with a heavy heart; my well refuses to dry.
They appear not to mind when I tell them of my departure. They thank me for coming, and I bid both of them goodbye. I do so fearful that Bra' Geoff and Bra' Lefifi's voices may stop me in my tracks; that they may express their disappointment in me because they had fought with art in their prime. I’m certain they would want to ask me which weapon I would use to influence change in this supposedly new dispensation.
‘My pen Bra' Geoff and Bra’ Lefifi; my pen!’ I would say.
I'm sure they would smile in approval of my choice, only if I make use of it. Soon after that thought I leave, feeling less conscious of my departure this time. I stride in confidence and take immense pride in my undertaking. Something assures me that I chose just the right tool to protest with – it has a long history after all.
Outside, the Cape night is cold with cynical breeze. It hits me then that some residents of Hangberg have lost their dwellings and could be taunted by the same breeze; perhaps a harsher one because unlike Obz, their living area is not shielded by the mighty Table Mountain.
I leave that space, grieving and depressed.
©Deon Simphiwe Skade
29 September, 2010
Hangberg's plight
The situation in Hangberg only echoes the rampant harassment and brutality by the Police on the poor citizens of South Africa. The fact that it was caught on camera, galvanised concerned citizens to say and do something about such injustices.
South Africa's townships can share multitudes of similar stories which happen regularly, if only they can be approached for such. Sadly though, people of Hangberg lost their eyes among many other things that no recourse may make up for.
The Police brutality sentiment that features in our conversations, is the reality of many South African victims that continues unabated.
Deon Simphiwe Skade
Zoopy has some reflections on this situation.
.
South Africa's townships can share multitudes of similar stories which happen regularly, if only they can be approached for such. Sadly though, people of Hangberg lost their eyes among many other things that no recourse may make up for.
The Police brutality sentiment that features in our conversations, is the reality of many South African victims that continues unabated.
Deon Simphiwe Skade
Zoopy has some reflections on this situation.
.
Hacked!!!
Some low self-esteemed ''IT genius'' hacked into my Gmail account yesterday. As a result, a multiple set of e-mails that I did author were sent to all my contacts.
To say this did not upset my apple cart would be a gross understatement - I was livid and burning with fierce vernom. But then, I remembered that this world is set on an equilibrium, I think; which is affected by one's psychological outlook. If there's someone celebrating life on one hand, another one is bent of maiming it to make up for deficiencies they are experiencing in their own 'troubled' life. This we see everyday through taunts and related behavioural tendencies from negative people - a need to make others feel awful. This lack of feel-good spirit is the one I presume to be present in the bored hacker that compromised the security of my account. What a loser!
I refuse to been sucked into such pettiness by being morbid. I see the evil of this world being the necessity for the good to prevail. In this case, the hacker is the evil. But this does not make me the good. I suppose life doesn't solely rest on an equilibrium. Alternatives exist.
Who knows what's next in the line of hacks; my blog, Acoustic Strings? Even if that were to happen, it won't dissuade me from my course. This life I will continue to celebrate. But for now, the more pressing issue is the situation in Hangberg, Hout Bay, where gross violation of human rights continues to unfolds.
Deon Simphiwe Skade
To say this did not upset my apple cart would be a gross understatement - I was livid and burning with fierce vernom. But then, I remembered that this world is set on an equilibrium, I think; which is affected by one's psychological outlook. If there's someone celebrating life on one hand, another one is bent of maiming it to make up for deficiencies they are experiencing in their own 'troubled' life. This we see everyday through taunts and related behavioural tendencies from negative people - a need to make others feel awful. This lack of feel-good spirit is the one I presume to be present in the bored hacker that compromised the security of my account. What a loser!
I refuse to been sucked into such pettiness by being morbid. I see the evil of this world being the necessity for the good to prevail. In this case, the hacker is the evil. But this does not make me the good. I suppose life doesn't solely rest on an equilibrium. Alternatives exist.
Who knows what's next in the line of hacks; my blog, Acoustic Strings? Even if that were to happen, it won't dissuade me from my course. This life I will continue to celebrate. But for now, the more pressing issue is the situation in Hangberg, Hout Bay, where gross violation of human rights continues to unfolds.
Deon Simphiwe Skade
28 September, 2010
Looking at Hector Kunene through the tunnel
Hector Kunene is a writer and poet brimming with imminent artistic prosperity. Only time will reveal more of this abundance. His passion for words reflects in the manner in which he uses them to craft his writing. I managed to arrange an e-mail interview with him, to which he cordially agreed and responded to in no time. This comes after a successful publication and launch of his debut anthology of poems called Through the Tunnel. Below is our conversation:
Deon Skade: Congratulation on the publication of your first collection of poetry; beautiful cover design by the way. How has the reception of the work been so far?
Hector Kunene: Thank you; the cover had actually been in my mind for a while and just when the book had to go to print, I transferred it from mind to paper. The reception has been fabulous; as a result I am glad to say that Free State newspapers did an awesome coverage in getting my book to the people through media influence. I even sell copies on the street when I am stopped by a joyous fan. Has been reviewed by Mangaung Issue, which brought a lot of audience asking about my baby, Through The Tunnel.
D.S: How did the launch in Bloemfontein go?
H.K: Yoh! You must see the DVD and the pictures as they describe the event better. We had an amazing day as poets came to cast their votes on Through The Tunnel. Bloemfontein Public Library gave me a warm support and encouragement to achieve my goal that day. We need that as writers. Libraries are very important to us as they preserve our legacy the best way possible.
D.S: I learnt though your wife, Chrissie, that choosing the title was a significant move. Do you mind telling us about that please?
H.K: (Smilling) Indeed Sir, Chrissie understands what I dare and supports my vision as an author. She types my work and questions me about my ideas; as a result she is my PA. She oozes with brio that sometimes I ask myself who the writer is! Through The Tunnel is basically a prophetic title. It means that in life we all have a tunnel that we must go through; we choose to be stuck in it, or to go through it. Life gives challenges which we need to go through in order to grow to another dimension.
Gold needs to be tested through fire and we as human being are afraid of going Through The Tunnel. As a result we die prematurely. There is always light at the end of the tunnel; we just need to use all our strength to push through and not to push to! If you look at the design of the cover, it has greener pastures at the end of the dark Tunnel which represent the end of the struggle, and the beginning of a fulfilling and purposeful life.
D.S: How has your journey been so far, to have reached this milestone of publishing this book?
H.K: It has been a shower waterfall breezing through my dreads. What a refreshment!
D.S: You published your book through New Voices Publishing, which is a Cape Town-based publisher. How did this happen knowing that you're a resident of Bloemfontein?
H.K: Well I spoke to my mentor Omoseye Bolaji about a couple of quotations from local and international houses. The price tag was too hefty for my pocket so Bolaji suggested a few website of which I visited and Wallah! - New Voices was the best deal. They even put my book on their website for sale and for Google searches. The search will subsequently lead to New Voices Publishing and then to their bookstore. This is my first shelf ever; my second one is the boot of my car. For now one of the challenges I am yet to conquer is to get my book to bookshops like Exclus1ve Books, CNA, Kalahari, etc.
I love the fact that my book was done in Cape Town, it makes me feel like I am a traveller, and as a writer it sprinkles up my CV. Besides, when I first laid my eyes on Cape Town, she took my breath away.
D.S: You ooze a lot of charisma in your talk. Is that where the poet Hector come from?
H.K: I enjoy simple things in life like speaking, especially if somebody pays attention. I use my dynamic gift to explore topics and cover up many subjects at once. I love making an impression to give hope where there is hopelessness even if I don't have much to show for it. For me spoken words can either heal or break a spirit, so I try to be the positive side most of the time. The poet is nothing but a gift as I am surprised myself at what I am graced with.
D.S: Why did you choose poetry as a communication tool instead of other options?
H.K: Well, I think poetry chose me, so I am the chosen one. Every time I write a poem I finish it immediately, no matter the length. She always has her way in me and I can't resist her! She is my love. I buy her every month, especially recently.
D.S: What is poetry to you?
H.K: She is a mode of transport for me to get my thoughts and ideas across. She is a goddess waiting to be explored. You only have to find her. And those who find her love her, as she is a differently sweet melodic tune to ears, including mine. She has her way of reaching and influencing the world, as she travels all over the universe. She keeps me alive even when I feel dead.
D.S: I read your book and got struck by the versatility you have with words. Does this mean there's a possibility that you may write a novel one day?
H.K: A novel? haha, you are prophetic! I already have something in the bag called A Night Before The Wedding. Yes, it is a novel. See it next year around April/May. For now I have completed a stunning biographical work for one of the greatest African Writers. It goes to print this month end, provided I have done well with my budget. Watch this space; I predict my journey to tour Africa with it. I am tempted to talk more about it yet allow me to reserve it for now.
D.S: Now, you know just how much I love your poem, 'For you'. What was the inspiration behind it? I’m sure you’re aware of just how powerful it is?
H.K: (Smilling) I wrote it looking at Christina - my lovely wife. I honestly hardly recite for her, so I wanted to have something that can be dedicated to her so that even if I do not recite it, she would still know how much I love and appreciate her in my life. For my life is an empty tin without her.
D.S: You write your poetry in IsiZulu as well, a great way of preserving the language. Do you think writers can help in this regard?
H.K: Absolutely! The next generation needs to know how to express themselves in their own indigenous languages. As a result, we writers need to continue passing the relay stick or else we would have failed the older generation, and our legacy would be dented with challenges. We would be diversifying language in an attempt to explore other cultures, but abandoning our own. What a shame that would be!
D.S: You're one of those writers who are privileged to be receiving the inspiration and guidance from Chief Omoseye Bolaji. What have you learnt from your interactions with him?
H.K: Yoh! I have been honoured to have been given an opportunity to interact with O Bolaji. I have learnt that you should make use of your gift irrespective of your doubts and odds. He influenced my anthology to go to print. I had it well collected with an intention of publishing it, and he gave me affordable options which could suit my pocket. I researched and added one to one, and Through The Tunnel was born on May 2010.
I had met Bolaji in books prior to meeting him personally. From then on we sat and ate breakfasts at Hoffmans Square in Maitland Street, Bloemfontein, and explored literature big time. The man has a gift to bring to existence the purpose of writing from us writers, especially those based in Free State. There is a lot to say about this hero O Bolaji. I truly admire him and am blessed to have met him in my lifetime. (Sigh of emotional gesture)
Hector with his mentor, Chief Omoseye Bolaji at the book launch
D.S: You write articles for the Free State News, a Bloemfontein-published newspaper with over 50 000 readers. Does that number have any psychological effect on your writing, both for the paper and your art?
H.K: Yes, indeed! Every time I put pen on paper, I think of my readers. I have received a number of tabs on my shoulder from people who read my columns. Some told me that they open the newspaper and go straight to my column. It amazes me as it never really touched me before due to the fact that I hardly meet these people, yet the response on the streets is overwhelming. You may sometimes never know how you affect the next person until they tell you so. You really have to do your best in your art to create awareness and send messages of hope and love for all mankind. After all change can begin with one person then the rest may follow.
D.S: I read an interview you did with another budding writer/musician, 'Skietrekker', in the 10-16 September 2010 edition of the Free State News. It was exciting to see one artist interview another. Who else is there in your circle we should look out for in terms of work that will come out soon?
H.K: Wow man, Free State News gives an opportunity to writers to explore their God given gifts; as a result I serve as a testimony. This newspaper allows us to speak our minds. Please look out for a poet lady called Jah- Rose. Her book is called Rooted From The Heart. I am currently reading it and so far it is WOW!!! My lips are sealed for now. It is already done and the Launch takes place on the 30th September this year in Bloemfontein.
D.S: Do you have any projects in the pipeline?
H.K: Very interesting Mr. Skade. I try to limit my workload so as to find time to spend with my family. My 14 months old son Ntokozo is in his climbing stages, so I am practising authority and it feels so great to see his response when I say NO! Although I do not always succeed, but it is important for us especially young fathers to make time for our spouses than to let work be the only factor. Well, if I may, my theatre project is seemingly catching a drift and I hope to come to Cape Town to showcase it.
D.S: You have been blessed with a loving family. How has this helped in your path?
H.K: Christina and Ntokozo are people I look forward to seeing every day. I GLORIFY GOD for these people I lead. Sometimes I think God is too gracious to me. I have done nothing to deserve such grace. I love these people. I try to be the best husband, friend and father to both of them. They make me work hard as I have a vision to take them somewhere in life where God leads me to.
D.S: You have recently been to Cape Town and read your poems to an audience at a workshop, where some members shed tears. May you briefly tell us about that experience?
H.K: Man I have never seen so many tears in one day not being in a funeral. Life that day taught me a lesson. When I got to the auditorium in Newlands, Cape Town, my publisher requested me to share a piece of poetry. The Holy Spirit inspired me to do “A life of a woman" and just when I finished, people took out their tissues whilst clapping in great appreciation. I honestly have never received so much love. Some came to shake my hand, including Barbara my publisher from New Voices Publishing. She thanked me and wanted to cry as well. I was not aware of what that poem meant to them. She then invited me to autograph some of the copies that she brought along for sales, but when I got to the sales tables the book was sold out.
Mr. Dos Santos, a former coach, was also there and he came to congratulate me. I thought to myself, can a mere writer like me do such things? Yet I thanked God about that experience as it was very personal. As a result I am still grounded.
D.S: What would you like to say to your publisher for the work rendered on your book and to the people that have supported you through?
H.K: Yoh! I am speechless to that one, excuse the ambiguity. The relationship between New Voices Publishing and me is a match made in the Garden of Eden prior to the serpent scene! - I am in love with New Voices Publishing. I have never been published before and my very first anthology is pure quality and great touches of technicalities. This is just the beginning of great things to come. As I mentioned, my second book is also going to be published by New Voices and I am very grateful. As a result, I am unable to express my gratitude. I am overwhelmed with their gestures. The people who have supported me Through The Tunnel have proven to me that anything is possible. I need to believe in my craft first so that the next person can believe in me too. How else somebody can buy my story if I would not purchase it myself under a different name. I admit; had it not been for the people that supported and criticized me, being where I am today would still be a dream yet to be realized.
If I may add; the book is on the verge of filling every library in the Free State. The Department of Arts and Culture is on their toes in making Free State authors to be able to create wealth for themselves. I truly appreciate it. They attended the book launch and supported me massively. It would be so much amazing for me to contribute to literature; especially for those who are unable to purchase their own copies. As a result, they have access to libraries which play a great role for both the writer and the reader. To God be the glory!
D.S: Lastly, what motivates you to want to do what you do?
H.K: The Holy Spirit. He makes me understand my mandate and my purpose. For me writing is not a gift to be explored but a calling. There are many pieces that I woke up in the middle of the night and started writing.
D.S: Thank you so much for your time Hector!
H.K: Thank you too for the opportunity, I truly appreciate it!
*Article by Deon Simphiwe Skade with a great help from Hector Kunene
Book launch photo used courtesy of Hector Kunene
27 September, 2010
TWO LITERARY GEMS FROM THABA NCHU
An article by Flaxman Qoopane
Two books of short stories, and poetry have been launched at the Selosesha Public Library in Thaba Nchu (Free State).
Debbie Kiewiedo, the Principal Librarian of Selosesha Public Library said: “I feel proud to be a librarian here. It is a historical day for us because we are launching two books – Mind, Pen, Paper and Ideas by Teboho Masakala (short stories) and Dimakatso Mogashoa (poetry) The writers are important to the libraries because the community comes and read their works from us,”
Hector Kunene, poet and columnist said: “Both Masakala and Mogashoa, we are greatly proud of you. The community of Thaba Nchu must be happy that today we are launching these two books. As writers the status must not run into your heads. We urge writers in Thaba Nchu to come together and create book-clubs and have reading sessions. You should have literature workshops to improve your writing skills and publish more books”
Kgang Motheane from Motheane Associates said: “The youth must get friends who are writers like Teboho Masakala and Dimakatso Mogashoa. These two promising writers will motivate you with poetry and short stories which have been recently published,”
Two books of short stories, and poetry have been launched at the Selosesha Public Library in Thaba Nchu (Free State).
Debbie Kiewiedo, the Principal Librarian of Selosesha Public Library said: “I feel proud to be a librarian here. It is a historical day for us because we are launching two books – Mind, Pen, Paper and Ideas by Teboho Masakala (short stories) and Dimakatso Mogashoa (poetry) The writers are important to the libraries because the community comes and read their works from us,”
Hector Kunene, poet and columnist said: “Both Masakala and Mogashoa, we are greatly proud of you. The community of Thaba Nchu must be happy that today we are launching these two books. As writers the status must not run into your heads. We urge writers in Thaba Nchu to come together and create book-clubs and have reading sessions. You should have literature workshops to improve your writing skills and publish more books”
Kgang Motheane from Motheane Associates said: “The youth must get friends who are writers like Teboho Masakala and Dimakatso Mogashoa. These two promising writers will motivate you with poetry and short stories which have been recently published,”
© Flaxman Qoopane
26 September, 2010
23 September, 2010
Erykah Badu's Worldwide Underground
Funked up and on a refreshing Hip Hop note, Worldwide Underground is a masterpiece from an enduring creative genius, Erykah Badu.
Notwithstanding her groundbreaking debut, Baduism, which added a new variation to the so-called 'Neo Classic Soul' movement, Miss Badu, as she's affectionately known, went on to deliver yet another inspiring album which in this case appears to be an ode to Hip Hop and Funk.
An extract from a featured song, "I Want You"
"Love is on the way
All I got to say
Is it wont let go
We can pray to early May
Fast for 30 days
Still It wont let go
Got a good book and got all in it
Tried a little yoga for a minute
But it wont let go (oooh)
Tried to turn the sauna up
hotter
Drank a whole jar of holy water
But it wont let go"
22 September, 2010
Crystal Orderson on identity
"Identity is fluid," Crystal Orderson on a question asked about the reward her family have had through Kurt's research film, 'The Prodigal Son'
(The Distric Six Museum had a special screening of this film on 21/09/2010)
Issues of identity
Inevitably, there are inherently ambiguous sentiments and actions where the issue of identity is concerned. On one hand, there's the self, which can be defined differently from one person to another, with some people referring to the self as inclusive of the dearly loved ones. On the other hand, others may see this concept as purely an individual state.
There's also the issue of heritage to take into account on matters of identity. This includes all the victories and problems that preceded the living generation, which also feed the ambivalence that may not have been diagnosed as such.
Perhaps due to its hybrid nature in terms of how people have evolved to form so many so-called ''races'', identity becomes a complex concept.
Despite this loaded past, the present continues to unfold into complexities of its own, with ideas around us brimful of how we should define our identity and heritage. This state only reflects the natural ambivalence of people somewhat; i.e. the balance between all these concepts that have come to make sense over the years.
Deon Simphiwe Skade
There's also the issue of heritage to take into account on matters of identity. This includes all the victories and problems that preceded the living generation, which also feed the ambivalence that may not have been diagnosed as such.
Perhaps due to its hybrid nature in terms of how people have evolved to form so many so-called ''races'', identity becomes a complex concept.
Despite this loaded past, the present continues to unfold into complexities of its own, with ideas around us brimful of how we should define our identity and heritage. This state only reflects the natural ambivalence of people somewhat; i.e. the balance between all these concepts that have come to make sense over the years.
Deon Simphiwe Skade
Our oneness
Our oneness as a people is ravaged by the need for others to rule and divide.
Deon Simphiwe Skade
Deon Simphiwe Skade
21 September, 2010
Meshell Ndegeocello presents The Spirit Music Jamia: Dance of the Infidel
One could say this album recalls the complexities of Miles Davis' and John Coltrane's respective compositions and improvisations. But this sentiment may well undermine the sheer brilliance of the ensemble
Meshell Ndegeocello amassed in this aesthetically advanced project.
When one listens to this album, the spirit of Davis, more than anyone else's, hovers above the music like a blessing. I suppose his presence may possibly be a sign of approval for the incredible performance achieved
by this impressive band. Devil's Halo is thus a masterpiece. Perhaps Meshell's all-time best.
Deon Simphiwe Skade
Frank Miller's Sin City
Memorable quote from the opening scene:
Salesman: "The wind rises, electric. She's soft and warm and almost weightless. Her perfume is a sweet promise that brings tears to my eyes. I tell her that everything will be all right. That I'll save her from whatever she's scared of and take her far, far away. I tell her I love her."
The people and the Government
It's always easy to criticize the government, when in actual fact the system is lead to fail by certain elements within the government. This inevitably includes people.
Deon Simphiwe Skade
Deon Simphiwe Skade
20 September, 2010
Devil's Halo vs. Bitter
Bitter and Devil's Halo are two different albums. They have a clear distinction in arrangement, presentation and appearance. In short, they are two products reflective of varied creative outputs.
Bitter, whose title set a tone for its content, was a sombre record. It's not that Devil's Halo is devoid of any of that; that element is not as brooding as in Bitter.
In terms of creative borrowing, it is plausible that the recent work (Devil's Halo) has done that somewhat. But again, the sonic feel and the matured sound makes it a unique offering which transcends musical boundaries.
Deon Simphiwe Skade
17 September, 2010
Professional language
Professional space standardize language as a communication code.
The evolution of this code from that conformity, yields another state of sameness.
Deon Simphiwe Skade
The evolution of this code from that conformity, yields another state of sameness.
Deon Simphiwe Skade
Christion's Full of Smoke
"Well let us leave these two young men
to sit and reflect on the fate of the world
For life as we know it my brother must go on
And so the hustlers continue to hustle
And the players continue to play," An intro to the title track "Full of Smoke" lifted off the album, 'Ghetto Cyrano'.
16 September, 2010
13 September, 2010
Bilal’s Air Tight’s Revenge
With this new offering, Bilal Oliver reflects a conspicuous evolution in the voice and form of the music.
His has always been a distinctively elegant sound, and Air Tights’ Revenge continues that legacy with inspirational vibrancy and merit.
This is a true return of 'Mr Wonderful'.
Deon S. Skade
Image source: Google (Credit to the originator)
Love, a dedication to life
Pre-occupations with what love is and what it ought to be; are the very same reasons why it’s so difficult for some people to find love.
The nature of love is that of an unrestricted expression of one's feelings and dedication to life. Love's autonomous flow guides itself through.
Deon S. Skade
The nature of love is that of an unrestricted expression of one's feelings and dedication to life. Love's autonomous flow guides itself through.
Deon S. Skade
R.I.P Bra’ Lewis Nkosi
one could abstain
from writing about death
but that could be
a contemptuous gesture towards
a precious life lost
rest in peace Bra' Lewis Nkosi
© Deon Simphiwe Skade
from writing about death
but that could be
a contemptuous gesture towards
a precious life lost
rest in peace Bra' Lewis Nkosi
© Deon Simphiwe Skade
Image source: Google (Credit to the originator)
Sky is the limit for fiction writer Maxwell
Maxwell Perkins Kanemanyanga, a Bloemfontein based writer, is making his mark as an impressive writer of fiction. Thus far he has published two books: Enemy of the State (2009), and How do I talk about my Ordeal (2010)
Both books are collections of short stories. As Maxwell says: ‘’I feel comfortable writing short stories, and some of my short stories are quite long indeed! Sometimes I am so prolific, that I could get many ideas, and write new short stories almost on a daily basis!’’
Opinion is still divided among literary pundits as to whether the genre of short story writing is dying or thriving in our continent. Certainly, a great deal of African writers are churning out lots of short fiction (as Maxwell’s example shows) Probably the main problem is getting such works published, whether in magazines, newspapers, or in books.
Happily enough for Maxwell, publication has not been daunting for him so far. He has published many stories in local Free State publications, on the Internet, and of course his two books of short stories. ‘’I realize I have been lucky with publication’’ he says modestly, ‘’with universities and other literary institutions stocking my two books’’
A lot has been written about Maxwell’s concern over societal mores and his predilection for being didactic. Yet it is only right that a decent writer should be worried about such. This small excerpt from his Introduction to his latest book, How do I talk about my Ordeal? sums up the man and his work:
‘’Whatever affects one directly affects the other indirectly. An injury to one is an injury to all. If your neighbor’s baby is raped and murdered how would you feel? For as long as your neighbor’s baby is not safe, your baby is not safe as well. African governments don’t see this as a threat to the future of the nations at all. I have observed many governments making promises about child welfare. All these promises are just well drawn cakes on paper that will never satisfy the children’s hunger. They act as if they want to rule nations of skeletons If the economy stumbles they don’t sleep trying to fix things. When it comes to social issues like rape, violence, crime and corruption they deny and don’t even care. Maybe its time someone reminds them that a nation without a moral foundation is like a ship without a compass…’’
Having published two books of short stories within the last 18 months, it is discernible that the world of fiction can expect much more from Maxwell Perkins Kanemanyanga….
- O Bolaji
11 September, 2010
Lesedi FM's website
I found myself on Lesedi fm's website one morning, a Sesotho radio station dedicated to the Sesotho-speaking audience.
It was very funny that all the contents of the site were in English.
I know the reason for this may be argued in many ways, which may include 'global reach' intentions, markerting and advertising.
The bottom line is that this website excludes the very audience the station is committed to reaching.
Deon-Simphiwe
It was very funny that all the contents of the site were in English.
I know the reason for this may be argued in many ways, which may include 'global reach' intentions, markerting and advertising.
The bottom line is that this website excludes the very audience the station is committed to reaching.
Deon-Simphiwe
Love's victories
love fulfills itself
for the benefit of humankind
it's own satisfaction
is the triumph of the universe.
© Deon Simphiwe Skade
for the benefit of humankind
it's own satisfaction
is the triumph of the universe.
© Deon Simphiwe Skade
09 September, 2010
08 September, 2010
The book that will see the light
I was subconsciously fretting about logic, precision and the structure of the book that I'm writing. What a folly!
This story falls into place just the way I want it; perhaps because I had thoroughly thought about it long before I sat down to write.
The biggest toil were the thoughts that preceded the writing phase, the many that needed to come out and live as a concrete story.
And now, the logic, precision and structure all fall into place automatically.
I just have to guide this flow through for a desired end.
I'm happy with my characters, they are people I feel I have met and known.
I will continue taking my time. it will all be completed at some point.
This story falls into place just the way I want it; perhaps because I had thoroughly thought about it long before I sat down to write.
The biggest toil were the thoughts that preceded the writing phase, the many that needed to come out and live as a concrete story.
And now, the logic, precision and structure all fall into place automatically.
I just have to guide this flow through for a desired end.
I'm happy with my characters, they are people I feel I have met and known.
I will continue taking my time. it will all be completed at some point.
© Deon Simphiwe Skade
The Khoisan's march for recognition, Cape Town, 04 Sep 2010
The march was for the recognition of all the descendents of the original Khoisan bloodline, which includes the Boesmans, Namas, Griquas and the Cape Khoi
Gil Scott-Heron's Paint it black
"Picture a man of nearly thirty
Who seemed twice as old with clothes torn and dirty
Give him a job shining shoes
Or cleaning out toilets with bus station crews
Give him six children with nothing to eat
Expose them to life on a ghetto street
Tie an old rag around his wife's head
And have her pregnant and lying in bed
Stuff them all in a Harlem house
And then tell them how bad things are down South"
© Gil Scott-Heron
*Transcribed from Meshell Ndegeocello's "Akel Dama (Field of Blood)", lifted off the album "Cookie"
Who seemed twice as old with clothes torn and dirty
Give him a job shining shoes
Or cleaning out toilets with bus station crews
Give him six children with nothing to eat
Expose them to life on a ghetto street
Tie an old rag around his wife's head
And have her pregnant and lying in bed
Stuff them all in a Harlem house
And then tell them how bad things are down South"
© Gil Scott-Heron
*Transcribed from Meshell Ndegeocello's "Akel Dama (Field of Blood)", lifted off the album "Cookie"
04 September, 2010
His character and the storyline
'Write him into the storyline. How his character develops, we'll deal with it as things unfold' I imagine that's what they said when they wrote his character.
~ Deon-Simphiwe Skade
~ Deon-Simphiwe Skade
Rebaone Motsalane reviews NMM Duman's Deepest Springs
I strongly believe that had this book, Deepest Springs, been written in Sesotho it would have had a far greater impact on me, but it is still an excellent book. You could tell that the writer is proud of her origins as she has done a lot of research and did not want to compromise any Sesotho words to have a great impact and for the reader to fully understand the meaning. She could easily have settled for an English translation and given a detailed meaning.
The “Deepest Springs” tells a great love story from an African (black) point of view and is not a westernized version that we see black people have adapted to because of acculturation. It made great sense for someone to come who comes from a rural background and greatly appreciates nature at its best.
The storyline is about two lovers from a rural background whose love survives so much. In the end they beat many trials and tribulations that fate throws at them. But the storyline does not end depending on your views of life. To me it could be about a love story but for the next person it could be about marriage, how traditions put pressure on women and how men expect their women to be in a male dominated society.
It could also be about migrant labourers, how women were and are on their own, keeping the household running when their husbands are too busy providing for their families and ignoring the impact their absence has on their loved ones. This still happens today as women still play the same role keeping the home fires burning while men gallivant in the name of securing better lives for their families.
The story centres on two main characters. One seems too strong (for her own good) It is not surprising, as in real liofe this is exactly what happens in many marriages. Sometimes women are too strong but tolerate abuse in the name of love and happiness.
Our main character goes through a lot. Most black women will identify with her, especially regarding the expectation and pressures that in-laws put on their daughter in law. This abuse continues for years, as those who were abused in the early stages of their married life as makoti (daughter-in-laws) treat their sons’ wives with the same bitterness and hurl the same insults at them.
This book is a must read for mother and daughter-in-laws to be a mirror to them of how physical or emotional abuse can have a long lasting effect and also for husbands to take the much needed courage to stop the abuse hurled at wives”.
Rebaone Motsalane
This review first appeared on Letter from Africa
03 September, 2010
True identity
Plowing a lonely furrow is a sacrifice that one maketh to allow the self to rise and take his/her rightful place.
By no means is this a noble feat that requires one to be extolled.
The necessity to embrace one's identity must emanate from the genuine need found deep inside the soul - D.S. Skade
By no means is this a noble feat that requires one to be extolled.
The necessity to embrace one's identity must emanate from the genuine need found deep inside the soul - D.S. Skade
Taiwa's Itumeleng
Moses Molelekwa's Itumeleng from the album Genes and Spirits, evokes a feeling between sombreness and wonder.
~ Deon-Simphiwe Skade
~ Deon-Simphiwe Skade
Jay Naidoo on the idea of volunteerism
"I don't aspire to any position, I don't want to have any business interests. I want to promote the idea of volunteerism." Jay Naidoo in an interview with Carol Paton (The opposite of greed), Financial Mail, 13 August 2010.
01 September, 2010
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