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“My Name, My Identity!” – Watch the Video of Spoken Word Poetry by Femi Amogunla

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What is in a name? According to poet and writer Femi Amogunla, an African name is more than just a name. He believes that African names define our cultural identy and our circumstances. “The poet draws on personal examples of the challenges that he has faced when it comes to his name, and draws on how he has been able to keep bearing his name despite these.

The poem also shows the challenges of holding on to this culture of naming in a fast changing world. The narrator refuses any other version of his name, and takes pride in what he’s called. Rendered in English, this poem has a universal appeal, yet it is sprinkled with local Yoruba language, the poet calls the audience to a different language, to a different culture. It also makes use of accepted codes of culture like music. Finally, it educates others about African lives, African pride and the struggle of the African past.

In this video, the poet presents spoken word with a twist. Perhaps poetry will be enjoyed better in this format?

Watch and share your thoughts.

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