"First published in Great Britain in 1992 by Jonathan Cape Ltd."
Contents:
Introduction -- To an English friend in Africa. An undeserved sweetness -- The cross is gone -- We sing absurdities -- Stammerings on bedrock -- Little girl -- On a picture of South African street -- They say -- To one dying of leukemia -- The incandescence of the wind -- Darkening city: Lagos, 83 -- An African elegy -- Memories break -- Living is a fire -- On edge of time future -- Ife-Ife, 86 -- I see your face -- I shall tell you -- And if you should leave me -- You walked gently towards me -- I held you in the square -- Demolition Street: London, 83 -- A gentle requiem -- Political abiku -- We have no other way -- The poet declares -- Restore the balance -- And anyone who doesn't -- To an English friend in Africa.
Summary:
"This moving collection of poems from the Booker Prize-winning author finds strength and hope while reflecting on the complex issues that have plagued Africa. First published in 1992, Ben Okri's remarkable debut poetry collection plays with the mystique of the "Dark Continent," countering simplistic narratives of suffering that have been imposed on it with vibrant, nuanced portraits of the traditions and resilience of the African people"-- Provided by publisher.
This resource is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by State Library of Iowa.