Douglas Killam
Professor Emeritus of Literature
University of Guelph, Canada
Written on Tayo's works
I have six of Tayo Olafioye's books of poetry
and prose. There are many more from this prolific artist that
I have not yet seen. Reading them reveals the accumulated
wisdom which comes with age, experience and reflection. And
to that is added the encounter with illness so serious as
to give an urgency to qualities. Of the books I have - and
I am impressed and moved by each - the one which has had the
profoundest affect on me is A Stroke of Hope which
records the spirit which dealt with a life threatening medical
problem. The book contains a record of the causes and prosecution
of illness and the effort made to overcome it. More than this
it reveals the spirit, faith and intelligence which informs
not only the battle with the illness but the scope of Olafioye's
concerns for those who share his life and for whom he cares
and by whom he is cared for. This is the kind of record that
will provide information and more importantly consolation
for anyone who considers it.
And it reveals the spirit of an artist who
casts his net widely, who adds substantially to the canon
of African literature in an art that deepens and becomes at
once more plain and allusive as the writing continues.
His peers have recognized these qualities
and the importance of his art. His body of work is deeply
impressive and his reputation will continue to grow as his
audience increases.
***
On The Poetry of Tanure Ojaide:
A Critical Appraisal
Your commentary/appraisal is
a very good one.
