John Pepper Clark-Bekederemo, more commonly known as John Pepper Clark, is a pivotal figure in Nigerian literature written in English. He significantly contributed through his involvement with the influential art journal, Black Orpheus. With a foundation in English studies at Ibadan University, where he launched a student poetry magazine named The Horn, his career flourished as he transitioned from journalism to academia, ultimately becoming a professor of English at the University of Lagos. His most impactful works were published during the decade spanning 1960 to 1970.

Theatrical Contributions

As a playwright, Clark-Bekederemo skillfully blends African themes with elements from British and Greek classical drama to enhance their dramatic effect. A prime example is his play, Song of a Goat, which hints at the Greek term for tragedy, "goat song." The narrative explores intense sexual tensions when a vibrant younger brother seduces his sister-in-law, fathering a child for his impotent elder brother. This plot is deeply rooted in African customs that deem childbearing essential, compelling a family member to step in for a husband unable to fulfill this role. However, unlike the traditional duty-bound arrangement, the affair engulfs the couple in an overwhelming passion, provoking the elder brother’s jealousy and culminating in a fratricidal tragedy infused with personal and societal shame. The play’s powerful impact is further magnified by its use of elevated blank-verse diction. Its sequel, The Masquerade, captures the ensuing repercussions of the brother's murder, paralleling the tragic arc of Oedipus.

Critical Reception and Cultural Roots

Despite the success of his plays, Clark-Bekederemo faced criticism from African commentators who believed he excessively borrowed from global influences, thus diluting the authenticity of African narratives. In response to such critiques, he crafted Ozidi, a work more deeply entrenched in African tradition, albeit less theatrically potent. This play is inspired by a ritual from his hometown, which he later documented on film.

Lyricism and Personal Reflection in Poetry

Clark-Bekederemo’s poetry primarily embraces lyricism, reflecting his heritage with profound sensitivity. Works like "Night Rain," a nostalgic recollection of childhood nights listening to rain on the thatched roof, and "For Granny," a gentle tribute to familial bonds, demonstrate his softer side, contrasting with his occasionally abrasive public persona. This abrasive streak is prominently displayed in America, Their America, a book stemming from his mixed experiences during a journalist fellowship at Princeton University. His narrative ranges from witty sarcasm to harsh criticism, particularly when addressing the racism he purportedly encountered, though his general grievances might incite defensiveness among American readers.

War and Poetic Revival

During the Biafran War, Clark-Bekederemo, though a native of Nigeria's eastern region, supported the federal cause, which led to public disapproval from peers. His stance, driven by humanitarian rather than political motives, reignited his poetic voice in response to the war's atrocities. His poignant collection, Casualties, captures the profound sorrow and despair wrought by the conflict, marking a shift towards a deeper thematic exploration in his poetry. The loss of his friend, Christopher Okigbo, during the war was a significant emotional setback for him.

Academic Pursuits and Literary Criticism

Post-war, Clark-Bekederemo redirected his focus to academia, shifting from creative writing to literary criticism. The Example of Shakespeare compiles influential essays published in journals such as Transition and African Forum. His piece, "The Legacy of Caliban," argues that Prospero in Shakespeare’s play should be seen as a colonial oppressor, reflecting broader African interpretations.

Later Life and Cultural Legacy

In 1980, Clark-Bekederemo retired to his native village of Kiagbodo, adopting his father's name, publishing as J. P. Clark-Bekederemo. There, he continued his engagement with traditional...