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Periodical article | Leiden University catalogue | WorldCat |
Title: | Volume, power, originality: reassessing the complexities of Soweto poetry |
Author: | Penfold, Tom |
Year: | 2015 |
Periodical: | Journal of Southern African Studies (ISSN 1465-3893) |
Volume: | 41 |
Issue: | 4 |
Pages: | 905-923 |
Language: | English |
Geographic term: | South Africa |
Subjects: | poetry black consciousness |
External link: | https://doi.org/10.1080/03057070.2015.1055547 |
Abstract: | This article aims to reassess recent and continuing analyses of Soweto poetry that merely confirm it as a product and expression of a Black Consciousness vogue. Discussing works by Mongane Serote, Sipho Sepamla, James Matthews and Njabulo Ndebele, the author argues that although Black Consciousness ideas of self-respect and self-assertion are unmistakably included, this canon is situated within a profoundly complex historical and social context. Adopting Steve Biko's alternative definition of a 'national culture', the author argues that Soweto poetry is a medial literature. This 'oeuvre' creates a dialogue between common binary constructions of race, agency, culture and locale, and therefore becomes a factor in the creation of Black Consciousness and not simply its reflection. Notes, ref., sum. [Journal abstract] |