ADWA was originally commissioned by The Ethiopian Embassy in London. It was filmed in Addis in February 2015 by Aida Muluneh. Adwa is a poem celebrating the victory of the battle of Adwa that took place in the northern region of Ethiopia in 1896 against invading Italian forces. In which, Ethiopia’s win made it the only African country that was not colonized by Europe
Lemn Sissay
The world of Lemn Sissay
Superb writing read with heartfelt passion and pride by this son of Ethiopia.
thanks
Normally I would not want to celebrate nationalistic histories. However, when people have been humbled, by the history we are taught of poverty, famine, cultural and physical domination, then it is right to find pride as a response. But we have to acknowledge that the kings of Ethiopia were often as selfish and brutal as those of Europe. The problems of Ethiopia today are the responsibility of Ethiopians, both to blame for and to solve, more than foreigners.
Imperial structures have their problems. The English are fully aware of the absolute mess they have created in the world. However in the case of this battle, it was an important one. Let us Ethiopians have the victory for a day.
Very happy to Lemn. Victory for today and for the future
Great poem and great reading.
I want the interpretation
can I get the poem interpretation
I don’t think the Battle of Adowa is celebrated enough. Thank you Lemn for your best poem in English about the landmark historical victory. Though it is an eternal shame for the colonizing power, it is source timeless pride for Ethiopians.
Thank you
Amazing work! Interesting especially with the way it was read. Love from Ethiopian sister.