Breyten Breytenbach

Breyten Breytenbach: A Life in Words and Paint

Imagine a life lived at the crossroads of art, politics, and personal struggle—this is what Breyten Breytenbach’s journey was all about. Born in 1939 in Bonnievale, South Africa, he quickly became more than just another writer; he was a voice that resonated globally against apartheid.

How could one man encapsulate the essence of resistance and creativity so profoundly? Breytenbach attended the University of Cape Town, where his intellectual curiosity began to flourish. But it wasn’t until he moved to Europe and London that his true calling as an artist and critic took shape.

The Anti-Apartheid Warrior

Joining the anti-apartheid movement in the late 1960s, Breytenbach became a symbol of defiance. His involvement with Okhela, an international organization, led to his arrest and subsequent imprisonment for high treason. The nine-year sentence was reduced due to international pressure and his French citizenship, but not before he had served seven years.

During this time, Breytenbach wrote five volumes of poetry and English prose, a testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of oppression. His work during imprisonment is a powerful reminder that even behind bars, one can still create and inspire change.

A Global Voice for Justice

After his release, Breytenbach continued to be an outspoken critic of South African politics. He became a visiting professor at the University of Cape Town in 2000, sharing his wisdom with future generations. His work extended beyond South Africa; he campaigned against injustices worldwide, including Israel’s treatment of Palestinians.

His writings spanned various genres—poetry, novels, plays, and essays—mostly in Afrikaans. His first published work, ‘Die Ysterkoei Moet Sweet’ (1964), marked the beginning of a prolific career that would see him receive numerous awards and honors.

The Art of Breytenbach

Beyond his literary achievements, Breytenbach was also an accomplished painter. His surrealist paintings were exhibited internationally, showcasing his unique perspective on the world. He even practised Zen Buddhism, adding another layer to his multifaceted identity.

A Life of Dedication and Love

Breytenbach’s personal life was just as rich as his professional one. In 1962, he married Yolande Ngo Thi Hoang Lien, the daughter of the South Vietnamese ambassador to France. Together, they had a daughter and two grandsons. His dedication to his family and his work never wavered.

He rejected Afrikaner political identity later in life, embracing a more global perspective that allowed him to connect with people from diverse backgrounds. This journey of self-discovery is a powerful metaphor for the human experience—constantly evolving and seeking meaning in a complex world.

A Legacy of Words and Deeds

Breyten Breytenbach died on November 24, 2024, at the age of 85. He was remembered as an Afrikaans poet laureate and one of the most important living poets in Afrikaans literature. His life is a testament to the power of words and actions in shaping history.

He received numerous honors and awards, including the Chevalier de la Legion d’Honneur, Commandeur des Arts et Lettres, CNA Award (5 times), APB Prize, Reina Prinsen Geerligs Award, Lucy B. and C. W. van der Hoogt Prize, Anisfield-Wolf Book Award, Rapport Literature Prize, Alan Paton Award, W. A. Hofmeyr Prize, University of Johannesburg Prize for Creative Writing, Mahmoud Darwish Award, Max Jacob Prize, Protea Poetry Prize, Zbigniew Herbert International Literary Award, and Jan Campert Prize.

Breytenbach’s work has been translated into many languages, ensuring his legacy lives on. He is mentioned in popular culture as the only exception in the Spitting Image song ‘I’ve Never Met a Nice South African,’ highlighting his unique place in history.

Breyten Breytenbach’s life was a journey of words, art, and activism. He left behind not just a body of work but a legacy that continues to inspire generations. His story is a reminder that in the face of adversity, one can create change through the power of creativity and determination.