Gabriel Okara, a renowned Nigerian poet and author, is known for his distinctive writing style that blends African traditions with Western literary forms. His poem “Piano and Drums” is one of his most celebrated works, as it explores the complex tension between African heritage and the influence of Western culture. This article provides a comprehensive analysis of “Piano and Drums,” breaking down its background, themes, key details, and offering an engaging look at the poem’s significance. We will also suggest activities and assignments to further engage students with the text.
Background to the Poem “Piano and Drums” by Gabriel Okara
Gabriel Okara is a celebrated figure in post-colonial African literature. He was one of the first Nigerian writers to use a mixture of traditional African forms and Western literary traditions in his work. “Piano and Drums” was written during a period of intense cultural and political upheaval in Nigeria, as the country grappled with the effects of colonialism and the clash between indigenous African culture and the encroaching influence of Western values.
In this poem, Okara reflects on the tension between two musical instruments: the piano, which represents Western culture, and the drums, which symbolize African traditions. The poem uses the contrasting sounds of these instruments to explore deeper questions of identity, cultural fusion, and the search for a balance between the old and the new.
Summary of “Piano and Drums”
In “Piano and Drums,” Okara juxtaposes the sounds of the piano and drums to represent the conflicting forces of colonialism and indigenous African culture. The piano, often associated with Western classical music, symbolizes the foreign, civilized world, while the drums, which are deeply embedded in African traditions, represent the primal and raw aspects of African identity.
The narrator of the poem recalls the sound of the drums calling to him, a symbol of his African roots, but he is also drawn to the piano, which evokes a sense of the refined, educated world. Through this contrast, Okara reflects on the complex identity of post-colonial African individuals who are torn between their traditional heritage and the allure of Westernization.
The poem highlights the deep conflict between the pull of modernity and the preservation of traditional culture, capturing the inner tension felt by many African people during the post-colonial era. It is a poignant exploration of identity, belonging, and the influence of colonial history on the African psyche.
Key Plot Details of “Piano and Drums”
- The Contrast Between the Piano and Drums: The central metaphor of the poem revolves around the piano and drums, representing the two conflicting worlds. The piano symbolizes the Western influence, with its sophisticated and structured sound. The drums, on the other hand, represent African culture, with their primal, rhythmic, and dynamic qualities.
- The Inner Conflict: The narrator expresses a sense of conflict and division between the two worlds, caught between the desire to embrace the piano’s allure and the pull of the drums’ African authenticity. This conflict is a metaphor for the broader struggle faced by post-colonial African societies, torn between tradition and modernity.
- Cultural Identity and Loss: Okara touches on the themes of cultural identity and the loss that comes with embracing Westernization. The poem reflects on the ways in which colonialism has distorted African identities and led to a sense of alienation from traditional values.
- Regret and Reflection: The narrator reflects on the journey of his own cultural assimilation, feeling a deep sense of regret for abandoning or distancing himself from his African roots in favor of Western culture. This regret is underscored by the rich, evocative imagery of the drums calling him back to his heritage.
Settings and Symbolism in the Poem
The poem’s setting is not explicitly defined in terms of place but is rooted in the tension between African and Western worlds. The “drums” evoke the African traditional landscape—whether rural or urban—and are associated with African communities’ ceremonies and rituals. The “piano,” meanwhile, evokes the world of Western civilization, the refinement of the arts, and modern urban life.
The imagery of the drums is vibrant and rhythmic, while the piano’s presence is more subdued, structured, and restrained. This contrast symbolizes the emotional and cultural clash between African heritage and the forces of Western colonialism that continue to shape African society.
Class Activities for “Piano and Drums”
- Comparing Musical Symbols: Ask students to compare the piano and drums as symbols in the poem. What do these instruments represent in terms of culture, history, and identity? Students can write short essays or engage in discussions about the symbolic use of music in the poem.
- Role Play of the Conflict: Students can role-play the inner conflict experienced by the narrator. One student can represent the voice of the piano (symbolizing Western values), and another can represent the drums (symbolizing African culture). The rest of the class can observe and discuss the dramatic tension between the two perspectives.
- Create Your Own Poem: Students can write a poem using their own cultural symbols (such as music, art, or language) to represent the tension between two worlds. Encourage them to incorporate themes of conflict, cultural identity, and personal struggle.
- Group Discussion on Post-Colonial Identity: In groups, students can discuss the impact of colonialism on African identities. How does “Piano and Drums” explore the psychological effects of colonialism on an individual’s sense of self? How does the poem reflect the broader cultural impact on African society?
- Cultural Artifact Show and Tell: Have students bring in cultural artifacts (music, literature, clothing, etc.) from their own heritage and present them to the class. Students can discuss how their artifacts relate to the themes in “Piano and Drums,” particularly the concept of cultural conflict and preservation.
Class Assignments for “Piano and Drums”
- Essay on Cultural Identity: Write a 3-4 page essay discussing the theme of cultural identity in “Piano and Drums.” How does the narrator’s inner conflict symbolize the larger cultural tensions within post-colonial societies?
- Research Assignment on African Traditional Music: Research the role of music, particularly drums, in African culture. How do traditional African instruments reflect the values and history of African societies? How does this contrast with the music of Western culture, such as the piano?
- Poetry Analysis: Write a detailed analysis of the poem’s use of imagery and metaphor. Focus on how Okara uses musical symbols to convey complex emotions about cultural assimilation and loss.
- Debate on Westernization vs. Tradition: Organize a debate in which students argue for or against the adoption of Western culture over traditional African values. How do the ideas expressed in “Piano and Drums” shape your argument?
- Creative Writing Project: Ask students to write a short story or poem about an individual’s internal conflict between two opposing cultures. Encourage them to use the symbolic elements found in “Piano and Drums” to enhance their work.
Piano and Drums
By Gabriel Okara
The piano is a western thing,
A thing for the white man.
But the drums are an African thing,
A thing for the black man.The white man’s world is cold and far
From the land of the drums,
A land where all the hearts are warm
And the rhythm of the drums goes on.The piano sings of distant lands
Where the cold wind blows,
And the world is set in black and white,
While the drums sing of Africa’s gold.The piano calls for the straight road,
For the polished way to go,
But the drums beat in the heart of the earth,
And the rhythm is wild and free.The piano says, “Come, come to me,
I will show you the way.”
But the drums are calling out loud,
“Sons of Africa, come home.”
Conclusion
Gabriel Okara’s “Piano and Drums” is a powerful exploration of the tension between African tradition and Western influence. Through the metaphor of the piano and drums, Okara articulates the deep emotional and cultural conflict faced by post-colonial African individuals. The poem invites readers to reflect on the complex relationship between identity, heritage, and modernity. By engaging with the poem in various classroom activities and assignments, students will gain a deeper understanding of Okara’s themes and how they relate to the broader post-colonial context.