Poet Benjamin Zephaniah dies age 65

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Benjamin Obadiah Iqbal Springer, better known as Benjamin Zephaniah, died on 7th December at the age of 65. Zephaniah died from a brain tumour discovered only eight weeks before his death.

His death has affected many, but so did his enriched life as an anarchist, anti-colonialist and anti-monarchist. Further ventures included experiences as a renowned actor, musician and a Brunel University London professor of creative writing and poetry. 

Despite his expulsion from school due to severe dyslexia, Zephaniah began his literary activism early in life. By 15, his poetry was famous amongst Handsworth's Afro-Caribbean and Asian communities; he went on to author several books and plays, most notably, Refugee Boy, an exploration of racism, identity, and belonging.

His highly politicised works garnered much attention and praise, leading to him being named one of Britain’s greatest post-war poets by TIME magazine and accumulating 16 honorary doctorates. The Rastafarian activist was also offered the appointment of an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2003. Zephaniah declined the offer, stating “I’ve fought against empire all my life”.

Many reading this article will remember being taught the works of Benjamin Zephaniah at school. Amongst his poetry, plays, acting, and music, there was always his unapologetic political activism that helped create a better world, free of inequality. So, whilst nations mourn the loss of a cultural icon, we should all do well to remember that the greatest way to honour him is to remember his teachings and continue to circulate his work. By doing that, we can ensure a good man’s legacy lives on, for posterity's sake.