Rhodes University is grieving the loss of James Matthews, a distinguished poet and honorary doctorate recipient. Matthews, a prominent South African writer and anti-Apartheid dissident, passed away at the age of 95.
Matthews, born in Cape Town in 1929, grew up in District Six. His literary journey began at Trafalgar High School, where a teacher awarded him an exceptional score for a story about a tramp, signaling the start of his prolific career. Despite an accident at age 14 that cut short his formal education, Matthews persevered. He started as a newspaper seller and later worked as a chief messenger for the Cape Times and Cape Argus.
In 1962, Matthews self-published his debut collection, The Park and Other Stories. This work, depicting the harsh realities of Apartheid through a child’s perspective, marked his entry into the literary world. His 1972 poetry collection, Cry Rage, co-authored with Gladys Thomas, was banned by the apartheid government just weeks after its release. The collection earned Matthews the title of “dissident poet” and highlighted his fearless critique of the regime. In 1976, Matthews spent six months in solitary confinement in Pollsmoor Prison, where he continued writing and secretly sent poems to his daughter through his grandson’s nappy.
Matthews, known for his revolutionary spirit and positive approach to aging, famously stated, “Age is a beautiful phase.” His poetry celebrated the wisdom of growing older, and he engaged with senior citizens in his community through his work. He was a humble man, often calling himself “just a cat who got lucky with words.” His writings left a lasting impact on South African literature and the Black Consciousness Movement (BCM), though he maintained his work was beyond any single ideology.
In his personal life, Matthews was a devoted father and grandfather. He lived in Athlone on the Cape Flats with his grandson, PJ Grove. Matthews found joy in reading in his garden, surrounded by butterflies, which he regarded as his totem, symbolizing independence and freedom.
James Matthews’ legacy endures through his courageous writing and profound wisdom. His contributions to literature and his dedication to justice continue to inspire. He is survived by his children, grandchildren, and countless admirers who found strength and solace in his words.