Q#3-kelly,cesaire

Discourse on Colonialism

Aime Cesaire

Translated by Dan Pinkham

New Introduction by Robin D.G. Kelley

Overview

• Aime Cesaire's Discourse on Colonialism is described as a powerful polemic against colonialism and imperialism.

• First published in 1950 as Discours sur le colonialisme, it captures the revolutionary spirit of post-war decolonization efforts worldwide.

Author’s Context

• Important Events and Gatherings:

  • 1945: Fifth Pan-African Congress was held in Manchester, England.

  • 1955: Conference at Bandung, Indonesia, discussing third world issues.

  • Notable Movements: Revolts and insurrections in various colonies such as Algeria and India, marking a tide of anti-colonial revolts.

• Cesaire’s background in Martinique, leading to his engagement with issues of colonial identity and resistance.

  • His early influences included encounters with Negritude, Marxism, and surrealism.

Thematic Elements

Colonialism and Its Impact

• Colonization Misrepresented: Colonization is not a charitable endeavor but rooted in greed, violence, and exploitation.

  • Colonizers often present their actions as a civilizing mission, yet their deeds reflect moral depravity and brutality.

• Hypocrisy of Civilization: The so-called advanced European civilization acts as though its practices are superior while committing inhumane acts.

• Cesaire argues vehemently that colonial acts have dehumanizing effects not just on the colonized, but also on the colonizers themselves.

Critique of European Civilization

• Cesaire states that Europe is morally and spiritually indefensible due to its colonial practices.

• The violence and hypocrisy inherent in colonialism lead to a degradation of European society, where the repercussions are felt globally.

Double Meaning of Discourse

• The term 'discourse' serves a dual purpose:

  • It critiques colonial discourse that justifies imperialism.

  • It serves as a platform for voicing the consequences of colonialism on both the colonized and colonizer.

Historical and Cultural Context

• Philosophical Roots: Cesaire draws on Hegelian philosophy, arguing that colonialism is a product of a sick civilization.

• Influence of Surrealism: Cesaire's writing embodies surrealism by tapping into unconscious forces to articulate experiences of colonialism and the search for identity.

  • He emphasizes the necessity of imagination as a tool for decolonization.

Revolutionary Calls

• Vision for a New Society: His work suggests that the future lies in creating a new society that blends modern productive powers with the fraternity of pre-colonial times.

• Marxist Influence: Although he identifies as a Marxist, he revises traditional Marxism to highlight the anticolonial struggle as a central revolutionary movement.

Role of Negritude

• Cultural Identity: Cesaire reshapes the narrative surrounding black identity, promoting pride in black heritage against a backdrop of colonial disdain.

• Expression of Resistance: Negritude emerges as a vital cultural movement, claiming dignity and recognition for African and Caribbean peoples.

Conclusion

• Cesaire urges a rejection of assimilation into colonial narratives, advocating for a conscious reconstruction of identity.

• His closing arguments in Discourse on Colonialism challenge not only colonial powers but also the complicity of the colonized masses, calling for a profound transformation that honors heritage and fosters futures rooted in solidarity and freedom.

Robin D.G. Kelley suggests that Césaire sees discourse not just as words but as a form of poetry that represents rebellion against colonial rule. Césaire's work is set against the backdrop of post-war movements for independence and significant meetings, like the Fifth Pan-African Congress in 1945. He argues that the language used by colonizers often hides the violence and greed behind their actions. For Césaire, using poetic language can empower the colonized to reclaim their identity and spark resistance against oppression. Ultimately, he envisions a future where people honor their heritage and work together for freedom and solidarity.