An Eternal Optimist brings together subjects that are especially dear to the author. These timeless, eclectic themes are nonetheless woven together by a clear common thread. The verses are written in a straightforward style, free of ornamentation, which gives them a genuine, candid tone. The language is equally simple yet precise and effective, making a smooth reading. There are beautiful sound patterns, not many metaphors, but the rhythm is omnipresent. Despite the sensitivity and harshness of ...
An Eternal Optimist brings together subjects that are especially dear to the author. These timeless, eclectic themes are nonetheless woven together by a clear common thread. The verses are written in a straightforward style, free of ornamentation, which gives them a genuine, candid tone. The language is equally simple yet precise and effective, making a smooth reading. There are beautiful sound patterns, not many metaphors, but the rhythm is omnipresent. Despite the sensitivity and harshness of some themes, the author manages to strike a more joyful tone, showing that poetry is not only melancholy and sadness: it can also make us want to sing life. A simple song, through its lists and repetitions, that does not try to dictate the reader’s emotions but instead invites each person to wander freely through their own consciousness…
Holder of a Master’s degree in English Studies from the Faculty of Arts and Humanities at Cheikh Anta Diop University in Dakar, Alassane KOUME is the co-founder and coordinator of MY VOICE and, moreover, External Relations Coordinator of the Alliance of Young Entrepreneurs and Leaders of Senegal. He previously served as vice-president and then president of the UCAD English Club (2017–2018). He has also taken part in numerous volunteer initiatives in the fields of education, the environment and social engagement in Senegal.