London Waka is a poem by Robert Sullivan, a Maori author, that describes a world where the historical relationship between the British and the Maori is reversed. It can be read here.
'Waka' is a Maori word for 'canoe.'
I was exposed to this due to a class I am currently taking, and we're in a section about indigenous knowledge. The work of Robert Sullivan was being discussed and London Waka was mentioned. I read it and found it interesting, as it is alternate history and poetry simultaneously.
It's a rather clever discussion of imperialism, and I liked how the Maori return the plunder in the British Museum.
Thoughts? Has anyone here read this before?
'Waka' is a Maori word for 'canoe.'
I was exposed to this due to a class I am currently taking, and we're in a section about indigenous knowledge. The work of Robert Sullivan was being discussed and London Waka was mentioned. I read it and found it interesting, as it is alternate history and poetry simultaneously.
It's a rather clever discussion of imperialism, and I liked how the Maori return the plunder in the British Museum.
Thoughts? Has anyone here read this before?