Complete Analysis of Ancestral Faces by Kwesi Brew

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 General Introduction

Poet and Poem:  

The poem "Ancestral Faces" is written by Kwesi Brew, a Ghanaian poet known for his poignant explorations of African identity, tradition, and the impacts of colonialism. Brew's work often reflects a deep connection to his cultural heritage and a critical view of the socio-political landscapes of his time.

Context:  

Kwesi Brew (1928-2007) was a significant literary figure in Ghana during the post-colonial period. He often wrote about the tensions between traditional African values and the influences of Western culture. "Ancestral Faces" likely reflects his contemplation of the persistence of cultural traditions and the immutable aspects of his people despite external changes. The poem was written during a time when many African countries, including Ghana, were grappling with the aftermath of colonialism and the search for a post-colonial identity.

 Title

Analysis:  

The title "Ancestral Faces" immediately suggests a focus on heritage and the past. It hints at a contemplation of ancestors, their legacy, and perhaps a reflection on how these influences persist in the present. The word "faces" evokes the idea of personal connection and identity, suggesting that the poem will explore these aspects through the lens of ancestry.

Themes

"Ancestral Faces" by Kwesi Brew explores themes of heritage, cultural continuity, and the passage of time, highlighting the enduring presence and influence of ancestors in the lives of their descendants. The poem reflects on the ways in which cultural traditions and ancestral wisdom persist through generations, despite the inevitable changes brought by time. Here are some key themes in the poem:

 1. Heritage and Ancestral Presence

The poem emphasizes the enduring presence of ancestors, who, although having "sneaked into the limbo of time," remain influential. The imagery of "gay jingling Brass bells" and "frothy necks Of the sacrificial sheep" suggests rituals and ceremonies that keep the memory of the ancestors alive. The "reverent heads" with "moss" symbolize the passage of time but also the respect and veneration accorded to the elders and ancestors. The poem suggests that even as ancestors pass away, their presence continues to be felt in the cultural and spiritual life of the people.

 2. Cultural Continuity and Tradition

The poem conveys a strong sense of cultural continuity, with traditions and customs being passed down unchanged. The "drums" are a powerful symbol of cultural identity and heritage, representing the "fibre of their souls and ours." The description of the drums as whispering "behind black sinewy hands" indicates the intimate connection between the ancestors and the current generation. The phrase "the same men, slightly wizened" suggests that although people age and time passes, the cultural practices and wisdom remain consistent.

 3. The Passage of Time and Change

While the poem acknowledges the passage of time through references to the "moss on the bald pate" and the "rust on the ancient state-swords," it also highlights the persistence of cultural elements. The "skulls studded with grinning cowries" and the "ancient state-swords" symbolize the historical and spiritual legacy that continues to be relevant. The imagery of "white locusts through the forests" implies a sweeping passage of time, yet the essence of the people and their traditions remains unchanged.

 4. Identity and Belonging

The poem reflects on the collective identity and sense of belonging among the people. The repeated observation, "They have not changed!" suggests a recognition and affirmation of a shared identity that transcends individual lifetimes. The ancestors' gaze, described as a sweeping view, indicates their continued watchfulness and guidance over the current generation.

 5. Wisdom and Knowledge

The poem highlights the transmission of wisdom and knowledge through generations. The "same words of wisdom uttered Between puffs of pale blue smoke" evoke the image of elders sharing knowledge and experience in a ritualistic manner. This passing down of wisdom is an essential aspect of the cultural continuity emphasized in the poem.

 "Ancestral Faces" is a reflection on the enduring connection between past and present, exploring how ancestral heritage and cultural traditions shape the identity and soul of a people. The poem celebrates the continuity of cultural practices and the timeless wisdom passed down through generations, emphasizing the importance of remembering and honoring one's roots.

 Literary Devices

1. Imagery:  

   "The gay jingling / Brass bells on the frothy necks / Of the sacrificial sheep" creates a vivid picture of a ritualistic scene, highlighting the connection to cultural traditions.

2. Symbolism:  

   The "rust on the ancient state-swords" symbolizes the fading glory of past civilizations and the passage of time. Similarly, "skulls studded with grinning cowries" may symbolize a connection to the spiritual or ancestral realm.

3. Alliteration:  

   The phrase "sneaked into the limbo of time" uses the 's' sound to convey a soft, whispering movement, evoking a sense of secrecy and the passage of time.

4. Personification:  

   The poem gives human attributes to drums, describing them as whispering "behind black sinewy hands." This personification emphasizes the idea that the drums are a conduit for ancestral voices and cultural memory.

5. Repetition:  

   The repetition of "They" at the beginning of several lines emphasizes the presence and actions of the ancestors, creating a rhythmic, chant-like quality that mirrors the oral traditions of storytelling.

6. Metaphor:  

   "Sweeping like white locusts through the forests" compares the ancestors to locusts, suggesting a pervasive and overwhelming presence. The metaphor also invokes the idea of an all-encompassing influence that cannot be easily ignored.

 Language and Diction

Brew employs formal, evocative language that reflects a reverence for tradition and ancestry. The use of words like "reverent heads," "sacrificial sheep," and "state-swords" conveys a tone of solemnity and respect. The diction includes traditional symbols and references, which ground the poem in African cultural heritage. The choice of words such as "gnarled," "moss," and "rust" evoke the passage of time and the endurance of tradition.

 Mood and Tone

The mood of the poem is contemplative and reverent. It evokes a sense of respect and nostalgia for ancestral traditions. The tone is one of admiration and solemnity, as Brew reflects on the enduring presence of cultural heritage. There's also an underlying sense of pride in the persistence of these traditions despite the passage of time and external influences.

 Context

The poem reflects the historical and cultural context of post-colonial Ghana, where there was a strong emphasis on reclaiming and preserving African cultural identity. The reference to ancestral practices and symbols can be seen as a response to the erosion of traditional values due to colonialism. Brew's focus on the unchanged nature of these traditions suggests a critique of the loss of cultural uniqueness in the face of modernization and Western influence.

 Conclusion

"Ancestral Faces" by Kwesi Brew is a powerful exploration of African heritage and the enduring nature of cultural traditions. Through vivid imagery, symbolism, and a contemplative tone, Brew reflects on the presence of ancestors and their lasting influence. The poem serves as a reminder of the importance of cultural identity and the resilience of traditional practices in the face of external change.