By love-89.com In an interview with Dzifa Benson, the talented multimedia poet and dramatist, we delve into the poignant themes of her work, particularly her exploration of the life and legacy of Sarah Baartman, the young South African woman who became a tragic symbol of exploitation. What inspired you to focus on Baartman’s story in your poetry collection, “Monster”?
Benson: Baartman’s life embodies the ongoing issues of objectification and appropriation of black women’s bodies. She was not just an exhibition; her experiences reflect a historical inability to recognize the humanity behind the spectacle. It was essential for me to transform her narrative into poetry that honors her story while critiquing the societal constructs that led to her suffering.
Can you share your thoughts on the poetic forms you employed to convey her message?
Benson: I utilized a mix of traditional and innovative forms to capture the complexity of Baartman’s experience. For instance, I played with redaction to highlight the interplay of whiteness and blackness, revealing layers of meaning. The “Freak Sonnets” allow not just Baartman, but other women who were similarly exploited, to voice their thoughts about shame and identity. It’s about reclaiming the narrative.
In your poem, how do you juxtapose Baartman’s existence against the image of the Roman goddess Venus?
Benson: The poem serves as a lament, contrasting the slender, romanticized figure of Venus with Baartman’s own realities. While Venus represents an ideal of beauty, Baartman represents the silencing and fetishization of black women. My intention was to challenge the notion of beauty that excludes our truths and stories, emphasizing that we are all formed from the same humanity.
You mentioned the significance of water within Khoekhoe tradition. How does this element play a role in your narrative?
Benson: Water in Khoekhoe culture symbolizes both danger and protection, serving as a metaphor for the transitions in life, particularly for women. In my poem, the sea presents a threat to Baartman, mirroring the horrors she faced on her journey. It reflects her continuous struggle against the tides of her past and the legacy of enslavement, especially the trauma of the Middle Passage.
Lastly, your use of punctuation seems quite deliberate. Can you explain your stylistic choices?
Benson: The sparse punctuation is intentional; it creates a rhythm that reflects the waves of emotions and experiences colliding. For example, the line “for you ghost ocean swells laugh” can be interpreted in multiple ways, inviting readers to explore deeper meanings. I wanted to evoke the chaos and beauty of her spirit while acknowledging the predatory forces she encountered.
What do you hope readers take away from “Monster”?
Benson: My hope is that readers recognize the broader horizons of understanding humanity. Through Baartman’s story, I want to highlight the resilience and agency of black women while shedding light on the complexities of race, identity, and beauty in our shared history. It’s about moving beyond the surface to embrace a more profound connection with our collective narratives.