By G. Mudalige, Jadetimes Staff
G. Mudalige is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Technology & Innovation
The world mourns the loss of Breyten Breytenbach, the acclaimed anti-apartheid writer, poet, and painter who passed away at 85 in Paris, with his wife Yolande by his side. Renowned for his activism and literary prowess, Breytenbach's contributions to the fight against apartheid and his advocacy for global justice made him an enduring symbol of resistance and hope.
Born on September 16, 1939, in South Africa’s Western Cape, Breytenbach emerged as a literary force within the Sestigers, a group of Afrikaans writers who used their art to challenge the oppressive apartheid regime. Afrikaans, a language tied to colonial and apartheid histories, became a vessel for Breytenbach to both celebrate its beauty and reject its association with systemic racism. Despite living in self-imposed exile for much of his life, he remained deeply connected to his South African roots, using his pen and voice to expose the injustices of apartheid to a global audience.
Breytenbach’s life was marked by bold acts of defiance. His clandestine return to South Africa in 1975, intended to aid resistance groups, resulted in his arrest and a seven-year prison sentence for terrorism. During his incarceration, Breytenbach's resilience shone through as he continued to write, producing poetry and his acclaimed work, The True Confessions of an Albino Terrorist. The harrowing memoir offered a raw account of his imprisonment, including two years in solitary confinement, and solidified his legacy as a writer of immense courage and conviction.
Released in 1982, thanks to intervention by then French President François Mitterrand, Breytenbach became a French citizen and continued his activism on a global stage. His incisive critiques extended beyond apartheid, tackling injustices worldwide. In a notable 2002 open letter published in The Guardian, he called out Israel’s policies towards Palestinians, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to human rights and justice.
A prolific creator, Breytenbach published over 50 books spanning poetry, novels, and essays, many of which have been translated into multiple languages. His work was characterized by its lyrical brilliance, surreal imagery, and deep exploration of themes like captivity, freedom, and identity. Complementing his literary achievements, his artwork often depicted humans and animals in confinement, reflecting his empathy for the oppressed.
Despite his opposition to apartheid, Breytenbach later criticized South Africa’s post-liberation government, particularly the African National Congress (ANC), which he accused of corruption. His unflinching honesty made him a polarizing yet respected figure, as he held steadfast to his ideals even when it meant challenging those in power.
Throughout his life, Breytenbach received numerous accolades, including France’s prestigious Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters. He is survived by his wife, Yolande, his daughter Daphnée, and two grandsons. Breytenbach’s enduring legacy lies in his relentless pursuit of justice, his literary and artistic contributions, and his unwavering belief in the power of art to confront oppression and inspire change.
