Introduction
"Lest We Should Be the Last" by Kwesi Brew is a poignant exploration of the pursuit of wisdom and guidance amidst societal expectations and disillusionment. The poem opens with a sense of urgency as the speakers, possibly a community or individuals, hasten to seek the wisdom of a revered figure. They abandon their daily tasks, leaving their corn in the barn, to follow the path to the mentor's hut, driven by a profound desire for enlightenment.
As they journey, they witness the idyllic scenes of everyday life - children seeking water from women carrying golden gourds, laughter echoing from the well - yet they press on, knowing that the true nourishment they seek lies in the words of their mentor. The anticipation builds as they approach, confident that their hunger for guidance and thirst for knowledge will be satisfied by the profound wisdom of the mentor's teachings.
However, upon reaching their destination, they are confronted with a disheartening reality: those whom they once revered and respected now mock the mentor. This unexpected revelation shatters their expectations and leaves them bewildered and disillusioned. The poem encapsulates themes of disillusionment, societal hypocrisy, and the quest for wisdom in the face of betrayal, inviting reflection on the complexities of human relationships and the search for authentic guidance in an imperfect world.
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The Poem
Lest we should be the last
To appear before you,
We left our corn in the barn
And unprepared we followed
The winding way to your hut.
Our children begged for water
From the women bearing golden gourds
On their heads,
And laughing on their way from the well;
But we did not stop,
Knowing that in your presence
Our hunger would be barnished
And our thirst assuaged
By the flowing milk of your words.
Now we have come to you,
And are amazed to find
Those you have loved and respected mock you in the face.
Themes
The poem "Lest We Should Be the Last" by Kwesi Brew delves into several interconnected themes, each offering profound insights into human nature, societal dynamics, and the quest for enlightenment:
1. Seeking Wisdom and Guidance: The primary theme of the poem revolves around the quest for wisdom and guidance. The speakers, portrayed as a collective group or individuals, leave behind their mundane responsibilities, symbolized by leaving their corn in the barn, to seek the counsel of a revered mentor. They believe that the mentor's words possess the power to satiate their intellectual and spiritual hunger, hence their determination to reach the mentor's hut despite any obstacles.
2. Disillusionment and Betrayal: A central theme that emerges in the latter part of the poem is disillusionment and betrayal. Upon arriving at the mentor's hut, the speakers are shocked to witness those who were supposed to honor and respect the mentor instead mocking them. This unexpected betrayal from individuals previously regarded with esteem shatters the speakers' illusions and exposes the harsh realities of human relationships. The contrast between their initial reverence for the mentor and the mockery they witness highlights the fickleness of human allegiances and the potential for disappointment in those we admire.
3. Societal Hypocrisy and Critique: Another prominent theme in the poem is the critique of societal hypocrisy. The discrepancy between the public facade of respect for the mentor and the private mockery reveals the underlying insincerity and duplicity within the community. This theme underscores the poet's commentary on the prevalence of hypocrisy and the erosion of authentic values within society, prompting readers to reflect on the integrity of their own communities and relationships.
4. The Power of Words and Influence: Throughout the poem, there is an implicit acknowledgment of the transformative power of words and influence. The mentor's words are likened to "flowing milk," symbolizing their nourishing and enriching qualities. The belief in the potency of the mentor's teachings motivates the speakers to undertake their journey, highlighting the profound impact that wisdom and guidance can have on individuals and communities.
"Lest We Should Be the Last" encapsulates themes of seeking wisdom, disillusionment, societal hypocrisy, and the transformative power of words. Through vivid imagery and poignant narration, Kwesi Brew invites readers to contemplate the complexities of human relationships, the pursuit of enlightenment, and the enduring quest for authenticity in a world marked by uncertainty and betrayal.
Language Use in the Poem
The language used in "Lest We Should Be the Last" by Kwesi Brew is rich in imagery, symbolism, and emotional resonance, contributing to the poem's depth and complexity. Here's an elaborate analysis of the language employed:
1. Elevated Diction: The language throughout the poem is elevated and formal, reflecting the reverence and respect the speakers hold for the mentor. Phrases like "To appear before you" and "The winding way to your hut" imbue the narrative with a sense of solemnity and significance, emphasizing the importance of seeking the mentor's guidance.
2. Symbolism: The use of symbolic language adds layers of meaning to the poem. The act of leaving "our corn in the barn" symbolizes the abandonment of worldly concerns in pursuit of spiritual nourishment and enlightenment. Similarly, the "golden gourds" carried by the women represent abundance and sustenance, contrasting with the spiritual hunger the speakers hope to alleviate through the mentor's words.
3. Imagery: Vivid imagery is employed to evoke sensory experiences and create a visual landscape for the reader. Descriptions such as "women bearing golden gourds on their heads" and "laughing on their way from the well" paint a vibrant picture of the rural setting and the bustling activity of everyday life. This imagery serves to ground the poem in a specific cultural context while also enhancing its universality by evoking common human experiences.
4. Contrast and Irony: The poem employs contrast and irony to underscore its central themes. The juxtaposition between the idyllic scenes of everyday life and the disillusionment experienced by the speakers upon reaching the mentor's hut highlights the disparity between expectation and reality. The irony of seeking enlightenment only to be met with mockery from those who were once respected emphasizes the unpredictability and complexity of human relationships.
5. Sensory Language: The use of sensory language appeals to the reader's senses, creating a more immersive and engaging experience. Phrases like "flowing milk of your words" evoke the tactile sensation of liquid nourishment, reinforcing the transformative power attributed to the mentor's teachings. This sensory imagery adds depth and texture to the poem, allowing readers to connect on a visceral level with the themes and emotions expressed.
The language used in "Lest We Should Be the Last" is characterized by its elevated diction, symbolic richness, vivid imagery, contrast, irony, and sensory appeal. Through carefully crafted language, Kwesi Brew invites readers into a world of spiritual quest, disillusionment, and introspection, prompting reflection on the complexities of human existence and the pursuit of enlightenment.
Literary Devices in the Poem
"Lest We Should Be the Last" by Kwesi Brew employs a variety of literary devices to convey its themes and evoke emotional resonance. Here's an elaborate analysis of the literary devices used in the poem:
1. Symbolism: The poem is rich in symbolism, where various elements represent deeper ideas. For example, "our corn in the barn" symbolizes the mundane responsibilities and worldly concerns that the speakers abandon in their quest for wisdom. The "winding way to your hut" symbolizes the challenging and circuitous path to enlightenment. Additionally, the "flowing milk of your words" symbolizes the nourishing and transformative power of the mentor's teachings.
2. Imagery: Vivid imagery is employed throughout the poem to create a sensory experience for the reader. Descriptions such as "golden gourds" and "women bearing golden gourds on their heads" paint a vivid picture of the rural setting and the bustling activity of everyday life. This imagery not only enhances the visual landscape of the poem but also serves to ground it in a specific cultural context.
3. Irony: Irony is utilized to highlight the stark contrast between expectation and reality. The irony of seeking enlightenment only to be met with mockery from those who were once respected underscores the unpredictability and complexity of human relationships. This irony adds depth to the poem and prompts readers to reflect on the inherent contradictions of human nature.
4. Alliteration: Alliteration, the repetition of consonant sounds at the beginning of words, is subtly employed in phrases like "corn in the barn" and "winding way," adding a musical quality to the language and enhancing its rhythm and flow.
5. Repetition: The repetition of the phrase "lest we should be the last" serves as a refrain throughout the poem, emphasizing the urgency and importance of seeking the mentor's guidance. This repetition not only reinforces the central theme of the poem but also creates a sense of rhythm and structure.
6. Metaphor: The metaphor of "the flowing milk of your words" compares the mentor's teachings to nourishing sustenance, highlighting their transformative and enriching qualities. This metaphorical language adds depth to the poem and enhances its emotional resonance.
7. Personification: There is a subtle personification in the line "Our hunger would be banished," where hunger is given human-like qualities of being driven away or dispelled. This personification adds a sense of agency to the hunger, reinforcing the transformative power of the mentor's presence.
"Lest We Should Be the Last" employs a variety of literary devices, including symbolism, imagery, irony, alliteration, repetition, metaphor, and personification, to convey its themes of seeking wisdom, disillusionment, and the transformative power of knowledge. Through skillful use of language, Kwesi Brew invites readers to reflect on the complexities of human relationships and the pursuit of enlightenment in a world marked by uncertainty and betrayal.
Context
Understanding the context in which "Lest We Should Be the Last" by Kwesi Brew was written provides valuable insight into the themes and motivations behind the poem.
1. Cultural and Societal Context: Kwesi Brew was a Ghanaian poet known for his exploration of African cultural identity and the socio-political landscape of post-colonial Africa. Therefore, it's likely that "Lest We Should Be the Last" reflects the cultural and societal context of Ghana or broader African experiences. The poem may touch upon themes of traditional beliefs, communal values, and the tension between modernity and tradition.
2. Colonial Legacy: Many African countries, including Ghana, gained independence from colonial rule in the mid-20th century. The legacy of colonialism, including its impact on culture, identity, and social structures, likely influenced Brew's poetry. "Lest We Should Be the Last" may explore themes of cultural resilience, identity formation, and the struggle to reclaim indigenous knowledge and traditions.
3. Quest for Enlightenment: The poem's central theme of seeking wisdom and guidance suggests a broader quest for enlightenment within the African context. As newly independent nations grappled with the challenges of nation-building and development, there was a renewed interest in indigenous knowledge systems and traditional forms of wisdom. "Lest We Should Be the Last" may reflect this desire to reclaim and preserve cultural heritage in the face of external influences.
4. Post-Colonial Realities: Post-colonial Africa was characterized by social, political, and economic upheaval as nations sought to assert their sovereignty and chart their own paths towards development. The disillusionment and betrayal depicted in the poem may echo broader sentiments of disillusionment with post-colonial leadership and the failure of political elites to fulfill the aspirations of their people.
5. Personal Experience of the Poet: While we cannot definitively ascertain the specific personal experiences that inspired "Lest We Should Be the Last," it's worth considering Brew's own background and experiences. As a poet deeply engaged with African culture and history, Brew may have drawn inspiration from his observations of society, interactions with community members, or personal reflections on the complexities of human relationships.
While the specific historical and cultural context of "Lest We Should Be the Last" may not be explicitly stated, we can interpret the poem within the broader context of post-colonial Africa, cultural resurgence, and the quest for wisdom amidst societal challenges. Kwesi Brew's exploration of these themes offers valuable insights into the complexities of African identity and the enduring quest for enlightenment in a rapidly changing world.
Conclusion
"Lest We Should Be the Last" by Kwesi Brew is a poignant and thought-provoking poem that delves into the universal themes of seeking wisdom, disillusionment, and the complexities of human relationships. Through rich language, vivid imagery, and skillful employment of literary devices, Brew crafts a narrative that resonates with readers on multiple levels.
The urgency and reverence with which the speakers seek the mentor's guidance reflect a deep yearning for enlightenment and spiritual fulfillment. However, the disillusionment they encounter upon reaching their destination, where those once revered now mock the mentor, underscores the unpredictability and complexity of human interactions. This betrayal highlights broader societal issues of hypocrisy and the erosion of authentic values, prompting reflection on the integrity of communal relationships and the quest for genuine wisdom.
Set within the broader context of post-colonial Africa, the poem also speaks to themes of cultural resilience, identity formation, and the tension between tradition and modernity. Brew's exploration of these themes offers valuable insights into the complexities of African identity and the enduring quest for enlightenment in a rapidly changing world.
In conclusion, "Lest We Should Be the Last" invites readers to contemplate the pursuit of wisdom amidst societal challenges, the disillusionment that often accompanies it, and the resilience required to navigate the complexities of human relationships. Through its evocative language and timeless themes, the poem continues to resonate with audiences, inviting introspection and reflection on the enduring quest for authenticity and enlightenment.
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