Gobannimooy! (O Freedom)
A Somali poem by Ali Shucaac with English Translation
Gobannimooy! (O Freedom)
Gobannimooy! (O Freedom)
waa geed magool oon nacas guurguurtiyo, (it is an acacia tree which a crawling fool)
fulay ma gaadhee, (and a coward cannot reach)
gobannimooy.(o freedom)
Gobannimooy! (O Freedom)
garasho dheer bay ku galbataaye, (with great intellect does it come home)
gobannimooy. (O freedom)
Gobannimooy! (O Freedom)
gacal is raacay ku gurmataaye,(with beloveds being in agreement, it is aided)
gobannimooy. (o freedom)
Gobannimooy! (O Freedom)
geesi dhiigii ku godlataaye,(with the blood of a lionheart, is its udder filled)
gobannimooy. (o freedom)
Gobannimooy! (O Freedom)
waa geed magool oon nacas guurguurtiyo, (it is an acacia tree which a crawling fool)
fulay ma gaadhee, (and a coward cannot reach)
gobannimooy. (o freedom)
Ali Shucaac's poetry, particularly "Gobannimooy! (O Freedom)," is a testament to the enduring spirit of resistance and the unyielding desire for self-determination. The poem's evocative language and powerful imagery serve as a beacon of hope for those engaged in the liberation struggle. The acacia tree, a recurring motif in Shucaac's work, symbolizes the resilience and steadfastness required to withstand the forces of oppression. Its branches, reaching skyward, represent the aspirations of a people yearning for the freedom denied to them.
Shucaac's artful use of repetition in the poem not only emphasizes the urgency of the call for freedom but also reflects the cyclical nature of the struggle, where each chant of "Gobannimooy! (O Freedom)" is a renewal of commitment to the cause. The poem is not just a reflection of Shucaac's defiance but also an invocation that resonates with the collective consciousness of those who have been marginalized and silenced.
As readers engage with Shucaac's poetry, they are invited to reflect on their understanding of freedom and the sacrifices often necessary to attain it. The poem serves as a mirror, reflecting the varied faces of those who have fought and continue to fight for their rights. It is a work that not only honours the past but also inspires future generations to carry forward the torch of freedom with the same passion and determination exemplified by Shucaac.
Shucaac's voice, though rooted in a specific historical moment, continues to resonate, urging us to look beyond our immediate horizons and strive for a world where freedom is not just a dream but a reality for all.
Ridwan <3