Volume, power, originality: reassessing the complexities of Soweto poetry

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Periodical article

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]