Hi Karlien,
Jo'burg & Masekela....
A number of white South African political refugees & writers have made their home here in Hobart over the past fifteen years, one writer (Anne Kellas) revisited Johannesburg late last year ... some quotes from a letter she wrote:
Having survived Johannesburg I am very glad to be alive and living in Hobart! Left the Truth and Reconciliation Commission listening to Winnie's evidence, and came back to the prospect of an election based on race ... here we go again folks. I thought I had left that kind of life behind me!!
Johannesburg's northern suburbs looked more lush and plush than I had ever seen them look before. Security guards every-where, even at ATMs. Some entire streets are blocked off and controlled by security firms who only let residents drive into the area.
My favourite story while over there: Aubrey my architect friend had to go into central Johannes-burg (only the bravest of the brave or those who absolutely have to, or blind idiot tourists, ever do that -- it is the most dangerous city on earth outside a war zone).
He needed to go into a chemist in one of the worst areas, and as he did so, noticed a dead body lying on the floor, and no one around. Aubrey quietly panicked, looked about the empty shop, and went for help. 'Oh,' said the person who emerged from an inner office somewhere, 'don't worry, that's from this morning ... '
Another story before I go: teenage friend asks his mom (wonderful friend with whom I was staying) if he can borrow her car.
Why? What's wrong with yours?, concerned parent asks.
My tyres are all worn smooth. (They certainly were, on examination).
Surely you've been pulled over by the traffic police at some stage before now!
Well yes, but the cop said, if you give me money for a coke and a hamburger, I'll let you off ...
So the cop goes away with the coke and hamburger, and Frank lives dangerously.
...............
And a thought of my own on Masekela.
The first time I heard his music was on a radio programme of "Music From Round the World". It wasn't jazz, more a traditionally African sound, he changed to jazz when he moved to the US. I tried to find a copy of an album - any album - of his for a gift to a friend (something moves you, you hope it strikes a chord with someone else) and eventually sent off to the US for an album. Was quite surprised to find the transition in his music, but fell in love with that too.
................
My son's name is Jazz, btw.
Best,
Ralph W
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