I’ve been craving a quiet corner to gather poems and writings, both old and new, so I made a Substack.
A poem is up, and the link is in my bio //
I hope you’ll spend some time there with me.
———
polishing the pulp
restless eyes insist:
cleanse, cleanse, cleanse
but I realize what I loved was
the way the berries stained my fingers,
carmine grooves that lingered
longer than soap
what’s left cannot be consumed,
only mourned proof that sometimes
we ruin what was already fine
by trying to purify it
beyond recognition
may I insist:
that sweetness is not just sugar,
but the tender rot of ripeness,
the way something wants
to be eaten before it fades
🎥 MOVIE NIGHT: Xala by Ousmane Sembène 🎥
Join us and United African Diaspora (@uadcalgary ) for a screening of Xala by Ousmane Sembène & Open Mic Solitaire by Julius-Amédée Laou on Sunday, February 16, 7-10 PM at 110 3 Ave SE.
Who controls the airwaves, and what happens when the silenced take them back? Open Mic Solitaire explores radio as a tool of resistance and connection for Black and colonized communities.
Xala, a sharp satire from Ousmane Sembène, often called the father of African cinema, blends African folklore with political critique. It follows a corrupt businessman cursed with impotence on his wedding night, forcing him to confront his role in French control over Senegal. With biting humor, Sembène exposes the lasting scars of colonialism.
Discussion is encouraged, and silent crafting activities will be available during the screening. 🎨
Make sure to enjoy some delicious Nigerian dishes by @lagoschopcatering while you watch the films. Run by Chef Funmi, Lagos Chop brings the flavors of Nigeria straight to Calgary. Known for their smoky party Jollof rice, small chops platters, and other authentic dishes, these amazing dishes will be available for purchase, while supplies last.
Entry is by donation. See you there 🍿✨
