Renowned Cape Town writer and poet James Matthews has passed away at 95, leaving a legacy of fearless resistance against oppression and a profound influence on South African literature and art, Cape {town} Etc reports.
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This week, the Western Cape Government (WCG) extended its condolences to the friends and family of the late James Matthews.
Matthews was born in District Six in 1929 and published some of his first pieces when he was 17. He later worked as a journalist for several publications, including the Golden City Post, the Cape Times and Drum magazine.
His first poetry anthology, published in 1972, was banned under the apartheid regime. He was detained at Victor Verster prison in 1976.
Despite these setbacks, he continued to protest against the regime and raised awareness of oppression in South Africa through his writing.
He later owned an art gallery in Cape Town and established a publishing company.
‘It is always sad when we lose someone who had such a profound impact on the arts in our country. James Matthews was someone who fought for freedom of expression for writers and other artists. He was dedicated to his community and did reading groups at local schools for many years,’ said Ricardo Mackenzie, the provincial minister of cultural affairs and sport.
Western Cape Premier Alan Winde said Matthews was more than just a writer and poet: ‘He was integral to the anti-apartheid movement, giving a powerful voice through his writing to the oppressed.
‘He was an important part of our province and country’s artistic fabric. He will be sorely missed and his contribution rightly celebrated. I extend the condolences of myself and our whole government to James’ family, friends, loved ones and all those who knew him. We celebrate him and the lives that he touched.’
‘We also know that he lives on through the many other artists he inspired,’ he added in his statement.
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Picture: Leila Dougan / Gallo Images
