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Today BestBlogAbout mourn the passing of one of the truly great figures in Black British Culture and one of the nations most beloved poets, Benjamin Zephaniah.
Benjamin Zephaniah was born on April 15, 1958, in the Handsworth district of Birmingham, the son of a Barbadian postman and a Jamaican nurse and was influenced by the creative expression of his Caribbean household and culture.
He surprisingly left school, or should that be he was expelled at 13 as a Dyslexic, despite already having a taste and talent for writing and poetry. Inspired by the rhythms of Jamaican music and social commentary, Zephaniah would go on to perform in his teenage years.
By the age of 15, Zephaniah had gained a devoted following in his hometown of Handsworth, Birmingham, demonstrating his early talent and impact. Known for his distinctive performance style, Zephaniah became a prominent figure in the dub poetry movement. His work often addresses social issues, racism, and inequality.
At a young age his life suffered a brief setback however when as a result of mixing with the wrong crowd he went to prison briefly on a burglary conviction at the age of 19. However, this did not deter and prevent him from becoming the man is was destined to be.
At 22, Zephaniah moved to London, where his first poetry collection, “Pen Rhythm,” was published by Page One Books. The success of “Pen Rhythm” established Zephaniah’s reputation, attracting mainstream publishers and launching his prolific literary career, where he went on to author over 60 works, encompassing poetry, novels, children’s literature, and plays, demonstrating his versatility and literary prowess.
In his 30s he had much more of a presence on TV, often as a guest on television shows on BBC2 and Channel 4, displaying his distinctive dreadlocks and “Brummie” accent. He also went on to start acting later in his career, notably starring in the BBC hit cult series set in Birmingham “Peaky Blinders”. Also a keen follower of football being an Aston Villa supporter and fanatic, he was very fond and very proud of his team and of course home city of Birmingham.
“I’ve been fighting against slavery all my life, I’ve been fighting against colonialism all my life”
Benjamin Zephaniah – discussing his rejection of his OBE award on the Big Narstie show
Zephaniah’s influence extends beyond literature, as he has actively campaigned for social justice, using his platform to advocate for equality and challenge societal issues. He famously turned down an OBEan award commissioned by the Royal family in 2003, stating that he could not possibly associate himself with an honour associated with the Empire as it was against everything he stood for.
Zephaniah was an active supporter of various social and environmental causes. He was involved in campaigns against racism and animal cruelty.
Today, he transitioned and became an Ancestor. I’m so grateful to have an insight into poetry and literature that resonated with me as a British-Caribbean through his works. His presence on Television to discuss racism and social issues had a profound effect on me. He remained authentic – never ‘played the game‘ in order to keep his “money” in tact. He rejected an OBE because of his principles, which of course is subjective decision based on each individuals perspective, but he simply couldn’t become a hypocrite.
Maybe, that is because he actually had talent. Maybe, it is because he had a gift. Maybe, he knew he stood on the shoulders of giants, his ancestors before him who raised him to be the social commentator he was through music, poetry and literature.
RIP – A lot of people right now could learn from him. Rest in Power Benjamin Zephaniah, Rise in Paradise Sir, Rest in Peace King. You inspired generations of people who understood and appreciated your artistry and craft.
Your life will live on through your works forever – blessings. Condolences to your family, friends and loved ones.
