“Release, February 1990”

By Lynne Bryer

Robben Island as seen from the back of a departing boat.

Photos by Stan Galloway. Please do not use without permission.

This poem is found in The Heart in Exile, page 55.

Notes: Nelson Mandela is the most celebrated political figure in South African history. His political imprisonment on Robben Island is near legendary. The island, which has a long history, has been converted into a national monument. Sleeping conditions were deplorable on Robben Island. Until the mid-1970s, inmates were given a mat to sleep on, which was placed on a concrete floor. Blankets were distributed based on one’s race: blacks got one, other non-whites got two. White prisoners were not sent to Robben Island. A sleeping mat from Robben Island.

Discussion: What is the general tone of the poem? Why is mention of the First World War important in this poem? Based on internal evidence in the poem, how do perceptions of Mandela differ outside South Africa, compared to his image inside. In what ways does the poet contrast the eyes with the heart?

Links: Excerpts, photographs and commentary on his autobiography, Long Walk to Freedom, are available from this site. General biographical information is housed at this ANC site. Here is a critical review by Stephen Watson of the anthology which contains this poem, and another, longer, review by Dirk Klopper.

Created by Stan Galloway 14 January 2002. Send comments to sgallowa@bridgewater.edu