Poet on a mission
Tumelo Mouwane | Friday February 12, 2016 12:41
Mmakgosi ‘Anita’ Tau fell in-love with poetry at the age of 14 whilst at high school. She has on many occasions graced different world stages. In her early professional poetry performances, Tau shared the stage with internationally recognised acts like The Kalahari Jazz band, Seeretsi & The Natives, Hugh Masekela and John Selolwane.
“My emergence into the poetic scene has been built on inner growth and a plight for the voiceless to be heard. My first poem was published in 1999 for a school magazine,” Tau said.
The 27-year-old, who expresses herself adequately is exceptional in innovative weaving of words that leave lasting impression.
Her poetry works range from love, politics, health, Christianity and trending issues. In one of her most downloaded poems titled, To Miss Uhuru, Tau decided to go across the borders, to critically disparage the political instability in Africa. The poem was released last year.
The reassuring poem expresses discontent with political turmoil in many African states.
Tau looks to the wife of the Kenyan president, Margaret Gakuo Kenyatta’s intervention.
Tau said her passion about politics drove her to write the poem.
“Politics have a ripple effect on our society, continent and globe. The economy, social justice, security, matters of abuse, the environment are all rooted in good governance,” she said.
Her latest poem titled Masterpiece alludes to a young man addicted to pornography desperate for God to free him.
Tau said her intention, through the spoken word is to help people live healthier lives.
“There is a lot more that I am working on, but this one is dear to me because so many people desire to be free from sin, but have nowhere to run.
“This is the opportunity for my poetry to speak unto their lives and inspire them to live a healthier lifestyle,” Tau said.
The poet said she also uses her poetry to grow believers and non-believers through the power of the spoken word.
“I use poetry to grow and groom believers and non-believers through the power of the spoken word. It’s an honour to be a vessel,” she said, adding that she used to add value and serve the kingdom of God through art.
“Last year’s Maun International Arts Festival gave me a beautiful platform to work for my God,” she said.
Tau performed to a gathering of the Dentists Society for Botswana at The Word Live 2015 held in Maun in honour of the Minister of Health, Dorcas Makgato. The poet said her stay in South Africa saw her performing at top notch events.
“My time in South Africa saw me performing in places like House of Nsako in Bree, Shivas in Newtown and in Johannesburg.
I am a part of Word Of Mouth-Audio compilation, Poets Circle Movement and MO Scripts. MO Scripts is a group advocating for growth and awareness in Botswana literature,” Tau said. Tau said her aspiration is to inspire people of all ages.
She said her life’s purpose would be fulfilled if she could penetrate through differences.
“My thoughts, my feelings and my experiences play a vital role in what is the end product of my poetic language,” she said.
Tau who is currently undertaking live performance classes said she would some time this year, attend a world standard fest, the Babishai Niwe Poetry Festival.
“In five years I will have completed my BA in live performances and I want to have a number of anthologies by then,” she said, adding that this includes an album exhibiting her vocals and poetic skills.
“I am currently working on a third ebook anthology and I am looking forward to international appearances to speak about poetry and to perform,” she said.
“The world will hear the gospel of God in another dimension with my art. I have made the cast of a major theatre production this year and I want to pursue more,” she said.