South African anti-apartheid writer Breytenbach dies

Early Life and Activism

Breytenbach was born in Bonnievale, Western Cape, in 1939. He left his native country in the early 1960s to settle in Paris.

Literary Career

Breytenbach published over 50 books during his lifetime, including poetry and novels written mainly in Afrikaans. His literature gathered several prizes, including the international Zbigniew Herbert International Literary Award (2017) and the Mahmoud Darwish Literature Prize (2010).

Artistic Pursuits

In addition to his writing, Breytenbach turned to painting to portray surreal human and animal figures, often in captivity. His art was displayed in Johannesburg, Brussels, Amsterdam, Hong Kong, and Paris.

Anti-Apartheid Activism

Breytenbach was a vocal critic of apartheid South Africa, and his activism led to him being jailed for seven years. He spent two years in solitary confinement after being betrayed and arrested in 1975. French President Francois Mitterrand helped secure his release in 1982.

Personal Life

Breytenbach was married to Yolande Ngo Thi Hoang Lien, who was born in Vietnam and raised in France. She was refused a visa to visit South Africa in the late 1960s due to being considered “non-white” by the apartheid system.

Legacy

Breytenbach’s legacy as a writer and anti-apartheid activist continues to guide people, according to his daughter. His words, paintings, imagination, and resilience will be remembered for their impact on the fight against apartheid and the promotion of democracy in South Africa.

Key Dates

• 1939: Breytenbach born in Bonnievale, Western Cape

• Early 1960s: Leaves South Africa to settle in Paris

• Early 1970s: Returns to South Africa on a false passport and is sentenced to nine years in prison

• 1982: Released from prison and returns to France

• 1994: Democracy arrives in South Africa, but Breytenbach does not return

• November 24, 2024: Breytenbach dies at the age of 85 in Paris