‘Thank you, for the depth of creativity and insight you brought to every work of literature…’

(A tribute to J.P. Clark)

‘Ibadan

running splash of rust

and gold-flung and scattered

among seven hills like

broken china in the sun.’

                                        – J.P. Clark.

OVER a decade ago, I produced and directed a feature documentary film in collaboration with the Nigeria Film Corporation titled ‘IBADAN – Cradle of Literati.’ This popular poem gave all the meaning and context needed for the film’s historical profile of the ancient city. We asked for Prof. Clark’s permission to quote the poem as the prelude to the film. He was gracious and quick to give an enthusiastic approval. He loved the essence and ‘truth’ of Ibadan deeply. And in a few immortal lines he defined it for the uninitiated by the power of his words. If you get the nuance of his verse, you will invariably enter into the mystery of Ibadan itself. Thank you Prof., for the depth of creativity and insight you brought to every work of literature that have expanded our understanding and connected us to enriching experiences. Rest in perfect peace.

— Femi Odugbemi 14.10.2020.

* Odugbemi is a storyteller and filmmaker