BY SIPHOSETHU MABUZA (INTERN)
MBABANE– Eswatini poet Olive Madzinane believes poetry remains a powerful tool for healing, self-expression and emotional connection among people from different backgrounds today.
Poetry has remained one of the most powerful forms of expression for generations. While many people view it as simple entertainment or creative writing, celebrated poet Olive Madzinane believes poetry carries a much deeper meaning. According to Madzinane, poetry is “food for the soul” because it gives people comfort, hope and healing during difficult times.
“As a poet and a woman who leads with purpose, I believe poetry is food for the soul because it feeds the parts of people that the world often neglects, the heart, the emotions, the spirit, and the mind,” said Madzinane.
She further explained that poetry gives people permission to express emotions that are often hidden because of pressure from society. According to Madzinane, poetry creates a safe space where honesty, healing and vulnerability can exist without judgment.
“We live in a society where people are constantly pressured to survive, perform, and pretend to be okay, yet poetry gives them permission to feel. Poetry heals, empowers, awakens, and restores. It is more than art to me, it is medicine wrapped in words,” she said.
Some people argue that poetry is slowly losing relevance because modern society is now focused on social media, short videos and fast entertainment. However, Madzinane believes poetry continues to adapt and remain important, especially among young people through spoken word platforms and online performances.
She also highlighted the role poetry plays in addressing social issues affecting communities today. Many poets use their work to speak about mental health, unemployment, gender-based violence and identity.
“Poetry helps people deal with emotional and social challenges because it creates a space where honesty and healing can exist without judgment. It turns pain into power and gives people hope, even in difficult seasons,” she added.
Madzinane’s views continue to inspire many young creatives in Eswatini to use poetry as a tool for healing, awareness and positive social change. As society continues to evolve, poetry remains timeless because human emotions and experiences will always exist.
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(Courtesy Pic)
