About this book
Christiaan Louis Leipoldt's "Oom Gert Vertel en Ander Gedigte" stands as a landmark collection in South African Dutch-Afrikaans poetry, offering listeners a lyrical journey through the landscapes and souls of a transforming nation. First published in 1921, this third edition compiles over twenty evocative poems that capture the essence of the Karoo, village life, and the human spirit with remarkable tenderness and social awareness.
From the titular narrative poem "Oom Gert Vertel," where an old man shares his stories, to reflections on concentration camps and the changing face of the land, Leipoldt weaves together folklore, personal memory, and keen observation. The collection includes the whimsical "Slampamperliedjies"—folk-inspired verses that dance with humor and pathos—alongside more contemplative pieces like "Op my ou Karoo" and "Woltemade se Spook." Each poem resonates with authenticity, whether depicting nature's beauty, exploring historical trauma, or celebrating the resilience of ordinary people.
Leipoldt's mastery of vernacular Afrikaans language brings immediacy and intimacy to these verses, making them accessible yet profound. This poetry audiobook is ideal for listeners passionate about South African literature, those exploring the roots of Afrikaans cultural expression, and anyone seeking emotionally resonant verses that speak to timeless themes of home, loss, and belonging.
