"The towering South African poet, activist and humanitarian Donato Francesco Matterapassed away on 18 July at the age of 86. What he represented to South Africa is far larger than his contribution to literature."
"Like all great poets, Don embodied paradox, and was motivated by, and motivated, radical change. From the early days of apartheid right up until his death, he challenged authority, publicly witnessed systemic violence, he actively used his agency and voice to liberate himself and others.
His style was emotional and subjective, which may also have contributed to his exclusion from the academy, where his work is not widely taught. He spoke up for and supported organisations defending prisoners, children, women, people with disabilities, the KhoeKhoe people. If the essence of excellent scholarship is rigorous research, innovation and relevance to society, Don’s only crime was passion."
Published: July 26, 2022
For some of his poems: https://www.african-writing.com/hol/donmattera.htm
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