THE late former Daily News assistant editor, Maxwell Sibanda, has been canonised through a new poetry collection by his younger brother, released to mark the fifth anniversary of his death later this month.
Canada-based writer Snyman Sibanda told NewsDay Life & Style that the collection, Verses on Epitaph (Ode to a Fallen African Scribe), honours Maxwell, whom he credits with inspiring his love for the written word.
Maxwell, who died on February 22, 2021, was widely known for his passion for journalism and his unwavering commitment to the arts.
Sibanda said writing became an emotional outlet following his brother’s death, prompting him to turn naturally to poetry.
“I started writing poems canonising him. The words just poured onto paper naturally. I believe in free-style poetry where words just come, no artificial addition, not bothered by issues of assonance, alliteration or repetition to make the poem rhyme,” he said.
“I poured my grief on paper and honoured a family hero, someone who inspired me to love the written word.”
The collection comprises 23 poems, divided into two sections. The first focuses specifically on Maxwell, while the second explores broader themes drawn from society and personal experiences.
“The poems celebrate one man’s contribution to the development of the art industry in Zimbabwe. The hardships he faced, his fight for Press freedom and the constant battle between corrupt government officials and the media,” he said.
- Late journo canonised in poetry collection
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Sibanda described writing as both “a hobby” and “an art” from which he derives deep personal fulfilment.
He said he learnt not only how to write, but also “how to hold the ropes of life” from his late brother, who was the second-born in a family of six.
“This book’s publication coincides with Max’s fifth death anniversary. It’s intended as a tribute to his works and the impact he had on our lives. He touched and influenced a lot of lives,” Sibanda said.
“The poems portray the human side of journalists; they also feel pain and ultimately die, but their works outlive them. They address the grief of losing loved ones. The other theme is celebrating a life well lived.”
The collection is now available on Amazon, and Sibanda says it stands as his personal tribute to Maxwell’s enduring legacy.
