First Rain

First Rain is a collection of poems by Hubert Matiuwaa that responds to the death of his grandmother, who declared in 2005 that she would die when the first rains came. The poems mourn the loss of a culture and language, address social, racial, and gender inequalities, environmental abuses, and injustices faced by native peoples in Latin America, and reflect on the importance of standing up to injustice.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 46 pages
Publication date: 16 December 2021
Publisher: Flipped Eye Publishing Limited

First Rain is a captivating collection of poems that emerged from the depths of the poet's soul in response to the profound loss of his beloved grandmother. In a heartbreaking declaration in 2005, she imparted to him the solemn truth that her days would be numbered when the first rains of the season arrived. This profound grief intertwined with the fading away (much like her deteriorating sight in later life) of a culture and language that held immense historical significance and deep pride within the poet's heart. Thus, the poems in First Rain serve as a poignant lament for the loss of a grandmother, as well as a poignant reflection on the gradual erosion of a culture and language that once flourished.

In this extraordinary body of work, the poet courageously addresses a wide range of social, racial, and gender inequalities, as well as environmental abuses and injustices faced by native peoples in Latin America. These issues, while specific to the region, have profound resonance on a global scale, reminding us of the shared humanity and the urgent need for collective action. Through his poetic lens, the poet vividly recounts the wisdom and resilience of his grandmother, who often uttered the powerful phrase, "In the face of the wind, grab the stones that are falling upon us." This phrase serves as a rallying call to individuals to stand up against injustice, to confront the forces that seek to oppress and marginalize, and to fight for a more equitable and just world.

First Rain is Hubert Matiuwaa's inaugural English collection, and it is a testament to his talent and dedication as a poet. It is a gathering of stones, each poem a carefully crafted piece that resonates with the reader on a profound level. The poet's language is rich and evocative, painting vivid images that transport the reader to the heart of his experiences and emotions. The collection explores themes of love, loss, heritage, and the complexities of human existence, offering a glimpse into the poet's inner world and the profound impact of his grandmother's legacy.

In conclusion, First Rain is a remarkable work of poetry that transcends borders and speaks to the universal human experience. Through its poignant portrayal of loss, cultural erosion, and social injustices, the collection offers a powerful meditation on the importance of resilience, heritage, and the fight for a better world. Hubert Matiuwaa's poetic voice is a testament to the power of words to heal, inspire, and transform, and his First Rain is a testament to the enduring legacy of his grandmother and the rich cultural heritage of Latin America.

Weight: 78g
Dimension: 209 x 286 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781905233700