BY Kimberly KARiATi
POET Energy Mavaza says he has embarked on a programme to groom a cultured generation of new poets who are able to deliver decent and relevant messages to society.
In an interview with NewsDay Life & Style, Mavaza said it was important for new talent to be groomed to use their art to address issues that members of society face in their daily routines, adding that poetry was a subtle art that expressed one’s literary richness.
“To young poets out there, I advise them to go back to tradition and tackle real day-to-day experiences in society whenever engaging themselves in poetry.
“This would be a huge score for our local poetry, if we manage to build and nurture a generation of poets that is culture conscious,” he said.
“I wish to speak to the future generation through poetry. Warn them, advise them and inform them. The power and influence of poetry is in realism and imagery. Be it spoken or page poetry, art should create a vivid imagination to the audience.”
Mavaza said he was working with various artists in promoting young talent.
“I was inspired to pursue poetry through the works of Wilfred Owen.
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“I work with various poets and artists such as Rumbidzayi Gwabanayi, Lindsay Musonza, Vongayi Masuka and Patience Gumbo in promoting up-and-coming talent,” he said.
“Workshops mould one’s talent in both spoken and page poetry.
“It is through workshops and idea sharing that one’s confidence is boosted.
“We also have poetry platforms that we share and assist each other on poetry writing and best publishing routes.”
Mavaza said although it had been a difficult year for poets due to the COVID-19 pandemic, he had, however, managed to work and accomplish some projects.
“This year I managed to publish and launch an anthology of 50 pieces titled Beneath The African Sun online.
“The book is already on the market,” he said.
“Now I am working on another anthology with six other poets on a project to be accomplished before September this year.
“I have so far published two books with the other one being Loud Thoughts on which I worked with seven poets.”
Follow Kimberly on twitter @lizellekimkari
