One of Seychelles’ most acclaimed and prolific author is the writer Antoine Abel, who had been an ambassador of the indigenous culture of the island nation. He is considered by many as the father of Seychelles’ literature, and had an extensive career writing novels, short stories, poetry and plays in French, English, and Creole. Most of his work dealt with the folklore of the Seychelles, and the natural environment of the islands, in which he wove in colorful personalities and histories inspired from the local culture. Descending from a family of slaves, he is the first Seychellois writer to expose to wide world to the literary gems of the country.
Below is one of his poems, ‘Dances d’hier‘ translated to English by Dr. Y., Afrolegends.com. Enjoy the poem below, and also check out The Seychelles Ministry for Youth Sports and Culture which ‘remembers Antoine Abel.’
| Danses d’hier
J’entends encore les staccatos Alors les collines s’enflamment J’entends encore les notes rapides Alors les échines s’arc-boutent Je perçois toujours les staccatos |
Dances of Yesterday
I still hear the staccatos Then the hills ignite (flare) I still hear the quick notes Then the backs bridge I still perceive the staccatos |
African Heritage 