Today we bussed, in a three hour journey, from one end of the island to the other to visit the house of the great Mauritian poet Edward Robert Hart at Souillac. Built with coral and volcanic rock it’s an idyllic place surrounded by the sound of Indian Ocean breakers and woodland birds.
We have to admit that we did not know of Hart, who died in 1954, before finding out about his place in the sweet fishing village of Souillac in the south of the island. Without even a school education the poet said that, like Wordsworth, he learned everything from nature. And what an area to learn than this!
Edward Robert Hart, also known as Edouard Hart, was born in 1936 and is considered one of the island’s most important poets. His work often explores themes of identity, colonialism, and the cultural landscape of Mauritius. Hart wrote in both English and French, reflecting the linguistic diversity of Mauritius. His poetry is celebrated for its lyrical beauty and its profound reflections on the human condition.
Hart also did various translations including the Bhagavad Gita from Sanskrit into French.
Edward Robert Hart had many friends, both within and outside the literary and artistic community. As a poet and writer, he associated with fellow writers, poets, and intellectuals who shared his interests and passions. Additionally, he had friends from various social circles, including those involved in activism, cultural movements, or academia. He formed connections with a diverse range of people throughout his life among which were Rabrindranath Tagore.
Among the poet’s possessions in his house I noted a large unstringed violin. It looked more like a viola. Behind it was a sheet of popular songs. I wonder what else Hart might have played and with whom.
The very personable curator of the house regretted that there were none of Hart’s books remaining there. I wonder who has his library now? I also wonder who, apart from French speakers, reads him today.
Here is one of Hart’s finest poem which is also placed on the front door of his house.
From London to La Costa (and Lucca and Beyond) Part Three 