Detailed Summary of The Eye of the Earth by Niyi Osundare

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Introduction

The Eye of the Earth is an intricate collection of poems by Niyi Osundare, first published in 1986. The anthology, comprising nineteen poems, delves deeply into the interwoven themes of nature, culture, memory, and social justice. Through these poems, Osundare explores the relationship between humanity and the environment, reflecting on the beauty of nature and the detrimental effects of human exploitation on the earth. The collection is divided into three sections, each offering a unique perspective on the poet's connection to his homeland and the environment. The anthology stands out for its vivid imagery, symbolic language, and the poet’s deep engagement with his Yoruba heritage and the Nigerian landscape.

Section One: The Reverence for Nature and the Land

The first section of The Eye of the Earth contains three poems that are a nostalgic reflection on Osundare’s childhood experiences in the forests of Ikere, a town in southwestern Nigeria. In these poems, Osundare recalls the rich biodiversity of the forest, vividly describing the flora and fauna he encountered. However, alongside this celebration of nature, he also laments the destructive impact of human activities on the environment, particularly the deforestation carried out by timber merchants.

In "Forest Echoes," Osundare paints a picture of a once-thriving forest teeming with life—a place where birds, animals, and trees lived in harmony. The poet describes the palm-wine tree, the partridge, the weaver bird, the squirrel, the chameleon, and other elements of nature, all of which contribute to a vibrant ecosystem. However, these images are juxtaposed with the harsh reality of exploitation, as economic greed reduces majestic trees to mere stumps.

The poem "The Rocks Rose to Meet Me" focuses on the rocks of Olosunta, which hold both physical and mystical significance in Ikere cosmology. The rocks are depicted as ancient, enduring monuments that have witnessed the passage of time. Osundare portrays his encounter with these rocks as a symbolic homecoming, reconnecting with the past and the deep cultural roots that define his identity. The rocks also symbolize resilience and strength, qualities that Osundare suggests should inspire the creation of an egalitarian society where natural resources are used for the collective good, rather than being hoarded by the powerful few.

"Harvest Call," another significant poem in this section, celebrates the earth’s bounty, particularly the yam, a staple crop in Nigeria. The poem is a tribute to the earth’s fertility and its capacity to sustain life. Osundare recalls a time before colonization when Africa was self-sufficient, culturally rich, and at peace. Through this celebration of the earth's abundance, Osundare questions the present-day reality where, despite the land's potential to produce plenty, many still go hungry due to the unequal distribution of resources and the greed of the ruling class.

Section Two: The Life-Giving and Destructive Power of Rain

The second section of the anthology, comprising seven poems, focuses on the theme of rain and its dual role as a life-giver and a force of destruction. Rain, in Osundare’s poetry, is a powerful metaphor for renewal and the cyclical nature of life. It symbolizes hope, fertility, and the earth’s ability to regenerate after periods of dryness and hardship.

In the poem "First Rain," the arrival of rain is depicted as a moment of joy and relief. The rain brings with it the promise of new life, as the earth breathes again, and plants and trees begin to bloom. The poet contrasts this renewal with the despair and desolation of drought, where the absence of rain leads to suffering and death. The imagery of rain "clipping the wing of the haughty dust" suggests the transformative power of nature, as the rain washes away the dirt and grime, allowing the earth to rejuvenate.

However, Osundare also explores the destructive side of rain in the poem "But Sometimes When it Rains." Here, rain becomes a symbol of nature’s wrath, capable of bringing destruction through storms, floods, and lightning. The poet reflects on the dual nature of rain, which can be both a blessing and a curse, depending on the circumstances. This duality mirrors the complexity of the relationship between humans and the environment, where the same forces that sustain life can also bring devastation when nature is disrespected or exploited.

The poem "They Too Are the Earth" expands on the theme of exploitation, focusing on the marginalized people who suffer as a result of environmental degradation. Osundare draws a parallel between the suffering of the earth and the suffering of the poor, highlighting the interconnectedness of social and environmental justice. He condemns those who "fritter the forest and harry the hills," questioning whether such individuals truly belong to the earth, given their destructive actions.

Section Three: Memory, Identity, and the Connection to Homeland

The third section of The Eye of the Earth contains nine poems that delve into Osundare’s personal reflections on his identity, his connection to his homeland, and the cultural heritage of his people. In these poems, the concept of "memory" serves as a powerful tool for preserving the past and understanding the present.

In "Memory," Osundare recalls the forest of Ubo Abusoro, a place that holds deep personal significance for him. He reflects on the memories of the forest, which is now being destroyed by timber merchants. The poet mourns the loss of the natural environment, but also celebrates the rich biodiversity that once thrived there. Through these memories, Osundare emphasizes the importance of preserving the earth’s resources and maintaining a connection to one’s cultural roots.

The poem "Homecoming" continues this theme, depicting Osundare’s return to his rural upbringing after spending time in urban settings. This return to his roots is both a literal and metaphorical journey, as the poet reconnects with the land, the rocks, and the cultural practices of his people. The rocks of Olosunta, which were previously described in the first section, reappear as symbols of stability and continuity. They represent the enduring aspects of culture and identity that remain unchanged despite the passage of time and the challenges of modernity.

Osundare also addresses the broader social and environmental issues facing Nigeria in this section. He critiques the neocolonial exploitation of the country’s natural resources, which has led to environmental degradation, pollution, and societal changes that threaten the well-being of the people. Despite these challenges, Osundare remains hopeful, emphasizing the resilience and resistance of the Nigerian people. He calls for a return to the earth, the source of life and wisdom, as a way to restore harmony and balance in society.

Conclusion

The Eye of the Earth is a powerful and evocative collection that captures the complex relationship between humanity and the environment. Through vivid imagery, symbolic language, and a deep engagement with Yoruba culture, Niyi Osundare explores themes of nature, memory, identity, and social justice. The poems reflect the poet’s concern for the degradation of the earth’s resources and his hope for a sustainable future. Osundare’s work is both a celebration of the natural world and a critique of the forces that threaten its survival. By drawing on his personal experiences and cultural heritage, Osundare creates a compelling narrative that underscores the importance of preserving the earth and its resources for future generations.