Song of Solider & Song of Prisoner is a collection of verse that observes the paradox of history where the saviour is also a sinner in need of being saved, calling for a revolution. In simple verse written in the voice of the everyday man, Kpakiama has forged a piece that is altogether powerful and devoid of obscurantist drudgery. This lends an air of authenticity to the entire work, as most political revolutions are perpetuated and borne by ill-educated actors, hence the originality of Kpakiama’s muse. The opening lines of the work are triumphant and celebratory, in a way foreshadowing its ending, for most revolutions in Africa or elsewhere are only slaves to the tragic forces that power them.
“Kpakiama ’s poetry is undoubtedly the work of a mature mind, one whose sense of rhythm and genuine emotiveness mark him as a poet to watch among the emerging voices in contemporary Nigerian writing.”
— Professor Remi Raji
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Timi Rowland Kpakiama was born in Benue State, Nigeria. He holds a Bachelor's degree in History and International Studies from the University of Jos, and a Masters degree in History from the University of Ibadan. He teaches at The West African Union University, as well as King Amachree International Secondary School both in Cotonou, Republic of Benin. His poetry draws its influences from Ijaw oral tradition, J.P. Clark, Okot P' Bitek and Mazisi Kunene. His publications include Salute to Our Mangrove Giants and Other Poems (Kraft, 2008) and Song of Benasoro (Parresia, 2013).