African poetry evokes deep emotions in the reader. It takes you through a journey of imaginary, historical and realistic situations entwined with thought provoking ideas and scenic experiences.
Kayo Chingonyi takes you through colonial history so you explore the life and times of the period. Sez Kristensen comes along with inspiring self-care, mental health with healing words. Togara uses the elements to address relevant parts of history and Stella Nyanzi pens down the poems of freedom and solidarity she wrote in prison.
That said, here are 4 poetry collections written by African poets that are a must read.
A BLOOD CONDITION – KAYO CHINGONYI
Kayo Chingonyi, a Zambian-born, British Poet explores colonial history, the origin of and horrid effects of HIV as well as survivor’s guilt in this fascinating 80 paged poem collection.
With less being more than enough, this collection gently carries its readers through different lifetimes and realizations.
HEALING HER – SEZ KRISTIANSEN
A collection of poetry pieces that ultimately aim to inspire and trigger a journey of self-healing with nurturing and gentle restoring emotions resonating with feminine energy.
No 1 in African poetry on Amazon, the intentional poems of Sez Kristiansen affirms that we can individually heal from our hurts and emotional pain with the energy we have within that gives us strength to face them.
VIRGA – TOGARA MUZANENHAMO
The third book of poems by Zimbabwean poet Togara Muzanenhamo, Virga portrays the weather as a witness to an ever-changing world coursing through different historical moments.
With moments of love, conflict, and work, he presents the elements and climate as part of the monumental high points in our fast-evolving world.
NO ROSES FROM MY MOUTH – STELLA NYANZI
This 196 pages poem was penned in prison by Stella Nyanzi who was accused of speaking against the then Ugandan president with her literary works on Facebook. Her Poems speak of solidarity, freedom, and the joy of people in a unified society.
Which of these poetry collections would you like to read?