James Matthews: South African Poet & Activist Dies at 95
The passing of renowned struggle poet and writer James Matthews at the age of 95 has elicited a wave of tributes, with former Dean of St George’s Cathedral in Cape Town, Reverend Michael Weeder, describing him as a beacon of freedom in the darkest of times. Matthews, a fearless writer and poet during the apartheid era, was a prolific contributor to a variety of publications, including the Golden City Post, the Cape Times, and Drum magazine, and served as the de facto news editor of the Muslim News newspaper in Cape Town.
South Africa has been mourning the passing of James Matthews, a literary giant and anti-apartheid activist who passed away in Cape Town at the age of 95. Matthews, a renowned poet, writer, and fierce critic of apartheid, left an indelible mark on the country’s cultural and political landscape. President Cyril Ramaphosa, in his heartfelt tribute, emphasised the importance of Matthews’ legacy and his contribution to South Africa’s freedom struggle.
We will remain captivated and inspired by the rage and elegance with which he articulated the stark struggles of the oppressed.
His first poetry anthology, published in 1972, was later banned by the apartheid regime, and he was detained at Victor Verster Prison in 1976. Weeder emphasised Matthews’ unwavering commitment to his identity and his fierce spirit, stating that his poetry served as an anthem to rally the spirit, offering a touch of dawn for courage. Farid Sayed, the former editor of Muslim News, now known as Muslim Views, lauded Matthews as a voice for ordinary people, his words providing them with strength during a time of oppression. Matthews, a recipient of the National Order of Ikhamanga in 2004 for his contributions to literature, journalism, and the struggle for a non-racial South Africa, will be remembered for his powerful writing that spoke truth to power and championed the cause of social justice.
A life dedicated to the struggle
James Matthews was more than just a writer; he was a beacon of hope, a voice for the voiceless, and a relentless critic of the oppressive apartheid regime. For nearly eight decades, Matthews used his writing to expose the injustices of the system and inspire millions to continue the fight for freedom. His works, spanning poetry, short stories, essays, and journalism, became a rallying cry for those resisting racial segregation and injustice.
President Ramaphosa, reflecting on Matthews’ legacy, expressed deep sorrow over his passing, saying that South Africa had lost “a cultural giant whose voice will ring in our consciousness following his departure.” Ramaphosa acknowledged the poet’s ability to blend “rage and elegance” in his articulation of the struggles of the oppressed.
A Voice for the Oppressed
James Matthews’ writing was not just about the beauty of words; it was about the power of language to inspire change. He was instrumental in giving voice to the marginalised communities of South Africa, especially during the most brutal years of apartheid. His fearless commentary on the socio-political injustices resonated far beyond the borders of South Africa, making him a globally recognised figure in the world of literature and activism.
Western Cape Premier Alan Winde echoed similar sentiments, describing Matthews as “integral to the anti-apartheid movement” and noting how his writings became a powerful vehicle for the oppressed. Winde pointed out that Matthews’ contribution to the country’s artistic and political landscape will continue to be celebrated for generations to come.
A Legacy Cemented in History
James Matthews’ impact was not only felt during his lifetime but will continue to influence South Africa’s cultural and literary heritage long after his passing. In 2004, Matthews was awarded the prestigious National Order of Ikhamanga for his contributions to literature and journalism, as well as his commitment to the fight against apartheid.
Born in District Six, Cape Town, into a working-class family, Matthews’ early life was shaped by the economic and social hardships of apartheid. As a teenager, he worked as a messenger at a local newspaper, where his exposure to the world of literature became a life-changing experience. He once described his introduction to a library as “one of wonderment,” which sparked his lifelong passion for reading and writing.
This early fascination with literature set him on a path that would see him become one of South Africa’s most celebrated writers and outspoken critics of the apartheid regime. His fierce denunciation of apartheid policies led to periods of imprisonment and harassment by the government. He was even denied a passport for over a decade, a testament to the fear that his words instilled in the apartheid establishment.
His introduction to a library [was] ‘one of wonderment,’ which sparked his lifelong passion for reading and writing.
The Power of James Matthews’ Poetry
Matthews’ poetry has often been described as both beautiful and brutal, a reflection of the harsh realities faced by black South Africans under apartheid. His works are infused with a raw emotional intensity, drawing on the pain, anger, and frustration of people living under the constant threat of violence and repression. Yet, alongside this rage, Matthews’ poetry also carries a message of hope, resilience, and the unbreakable spirit of the human will to resist injustice.
Ramaphosa noted in his tribute that Matthews had the unique ability to “feed the souls and fighting spirit” of those around him, whether at political rallies, protests, or intimate gatherings of fellow artists and activists. His presence, marked by his distinctive beret worn askew, became a symbol of defiance and cultural pride.
Beyond Literature: Matthews as a Cultural Icon
James Matthews’ influence extended far beyond the written word. He was a patron of the Congress of South African Writers, an organisation dedicated to supporting and promoting the work of South African writers. His role in nurturing and mentoring young talent helped shape a new generation of writers and activists who continue to challenge societal norms and push for progress.
His presence at events like ghoembas (festive street parades) and on the frontlines of street protests made him a beloved figure within South Africa’s creative and political communities. Matthews was not just a writer in the traditional sense but a cultural icon whose very existence challenged the status quo.
A Lasting Impact on South Africa’s Artistic Landscape
James Matthews’ passing marks the end of an era, but his influence will continue to be felt for many years to come. His writings, which chronicled the harsh realities of apartheid while offering a vision of a better future, have become an essential part of South Africa’s literary canon. They serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought for freedom and the power of art as a tool for social change.
Matthews’ work also had a profound impact on the global literary community, particularly among those engaged in struggles against colonialism and racial oppression. His ability to combine personal narrative with political commentary resonated with readers across the world, earning him international acclaim.
A tribute to a legend
As South Africans mourn the loss of James Matthews, it is clear that his legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of those he inspired. President Ramaphosa’s tribute captures the essence of Matthews’ contribution to South Africa’s struggle for freedom: “We will remain captivated and inspired by the rage and elegance with which he articulated the stark struggles of the oppressed.”
In the coming days, as tributes continue to pour in from across the globe, it is evident that James Matthews was more than just a poet and writer. He was a voice for justice, a beacon of hope, and a relentless fighter for freedom.
For those looking to learn more about this extraordinary figure, Matthews’ works are readily available and serve as a testament to his unwavering commitment to social justice.