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Senior Arts Reporter
Renowned poet Energy Mavaza’s collection of poems which he published in a book entitled “Beneath the African Sun” is out. Most of the poems inspired by societal settings.
Mavaza, who is based in Chitungwiza, said the anthology was compiled in the Covid-19 lockdown and will be available on social media.
He said in an interview that ‘Beneath the African Sun’, consists of 50 poems which are not in chapter form.
“The anthology is titled ‘Beneath the African Sun’ and its inspiration is drawn from life experiences from my community. I am motivated by the life of a former British soldier and poet Wilfred Owen, who only lived for 26 years, but is most remembered for his works.”
Some of the poems include, “Creative Excellence”, “Harvest of Thorns”, “Shadow of Hope”, “Patience Pays”, “To the waving flag”, “Slay queen” and “No short cut in the ghetto”, which mirrors the society.
Mavaza said the Covid-19 lockdown regulations and restrictions came as a blessing because this was the right time to engage readers and educate them as poetry was one of the major roles in combating such practise.
“The lockdown measures may seem to be gruesome and unbearable, but I have immensely benefited from it. Though it may sound ironic, it has given me more time to work on a number of projects.
“It is also time to reflect on life, hence through poetry people can read some of the societal ills and have solutions. I consider this period as the best for poetry to rise because a lot of audiences have the opportunity to pay attention.”
Mavaza said he enjoys venting his emotions through spoken word and poetry.
“I usually express my feelings through writing and it has helped me a lot.”
Mavaza said the book was on Amazon and being delivered as per order.
“We are waiting for things to be semi normal so that the book will be on shelves, but for now we are doing home deliveries and observing the Covid-19 regulations,” he said.
“We also want to put it at the National Art Gallery for easy access to everyone.”
Bongani Ndlovu
Online Reporter