Notes on ‘Talk to the Peach Tree’ by Sipho Sepamla

Background of Sipho Sepamla

• Born in Krugersdorp, Gauteng, in 1932.
• Studied to be a teacher and attended drama school in the UK during the 1970s.
• Renowned figure in South African Arts; founded the Federated Union of Black Artists.
• Many literary works were banned during apartheid.
• Key member of the Black Consciousness movement.
• Passed away in 2007.

Summary of the Poem

• The speaker humorously suggests discussing politics with various entities (birds, shadows, pets, the peach tree, air).
• Ends on a serious note regarding addressing the leaders of the Apartheid government (the 'devil himself').

Analysis of Key Themes and Techniques

Hyperbole

• Definition: Deliberate exaggeration to emphasize a point.
• Used throughout the poem to create humor while providing political commentary.
• Questions raised about understanding and recognition of humanity.

One-sided Conversation

• The speaker's attempts to converse suggest conversations are pointless and unreciprocated.
• Highlights an 'us vs. them' dynamic, contrasting oppressed individuals and the apartheid regime.

Symbolism and Interpretation

1. Swallows

   • Migratory birds symbolize Western presence in Africa, suggesting temporary nature of Western rule.
   • Represents cultural exchange and recognition of humanity.

2. Afternoon Shadows

   • Shadows symbolize the diminished state of oppressed African individuals.
   • Satirical commentary on oppression.

3. Pets

   • Symbolize the oppressed individuals; the apartheid regime's lack of understanding of the people.
   • Highlights the power dynamic between oppressors and the oppressed.

Political Commentary

• Lines 7-10: Language has lost meaning due to propaganda and miscommunication.
  • Words become ineffective and unreliable.
• Lines 11-18: Conversational tone shifts back to political commentary:
  • Paralysing heat: Metaphor for oppression and suffering.
  • Mercilessness: Reflects cruelty of apartheid.
  • Rubbish heap: Represents the dehumanization of the oppressed.
  • Peach tree: Symbolizes stability and belonging, which the oppressed lack.
  • Moon: Witness to injustices; suggests repression is visible but unaddressed.

Call to Action

• Line 19: "come on" - An urgent call for action against apartheid.
• Line 20: "let's talk to the devil himself" - Direct addressing of the apartheid government.
• Line 21: "it's about time" - Indicates the overdue need for dialogue to facilitate change.

Tone and Themes

• Tone: Absurd, cynical, despairing, yet conversational; addresses serious political issues.
• Themes: Life under apartheid, desire for change, and the absurdity of the oppressive system.

Structure of the Poem

• Written in free verse; no specific rhythm or rhyme scheme.
• Consists of nine couplets (lines 1-18), with lines 19-21 breaking this pattern.
• Indentation in certain stanzas denotes a shift towards serious political commentary.

Conclusion

• The poem is a blend of humor and serious political commentary reflecting on the realities of apartheid.
• Importance of understanding the historical context and themes of oppression.