My Encounter with the Late Prof. J.P. Clark – Wole Adedoyin

 

MY ENCOUNTER WITH THE LATE PROF. J.P. CLARK

 

My first encounter with the Late Prof. J.P. Clark happened during my secondary school days when we studied his renowned poem, "The Casualties." Little did I know that I would have the opportunity to meet the poet in person.

"The Casualties" by J.P. Clark sparked my love for poetry. During my secondary school years, I also delved into his other two beautiful poems, "Ibadan" and "Abiku," which captivated my heart. I was so taken by these works that I committed them to memory and can still recite them to this day.

As I later participated in the ANA Oyo meetings and the Olaudah Equiano Poetry Reading Sessions of Educare Trust Exhibition Centre, I fondly read Prof. J.P. Clark's poems with the attentive members. His verses resonated deeply with me and inspired me to share the beauty of his words with others.

Fast forward a few years later, the Society of Young Nigerian Writers which I founded in 2016 initiated the esteemed JP Clark Society as a heartfelt honor to the iconic Nigerian poet and playwright, Prof. J.P. Clark.

The JP Clark Literary Society is a dedicated organization committed to preserving and promoting the literary legacy and works Prof. J.P. Clark.

 

Through various initiatives, the society hopes to celebrate Clark's profound contributions to African literature and culture, organizing events, seminars, and conferences that explore the themes in his poetry and plays. With a focus on fostering critical discussions and supporting aspiring writers, the JP Clark Society stands as a vibrant community that continues to inspire and elevate African literature for present and future generations.

Besides establishing the Society to promote the legacy and works of Prof. J.P. Clark, I also wrote an article highlighting his remarkable body of works. To my surprise, it was this very article that caught the attention of the renowned poet and playwright himself.

One day, as I was blogging on my notebook at home, my phone suddenly rang. When I answered the call, a voice on the other end asked if I knew who was speaking. Not recognizing the voice, I replied with a "no." The voice then revealed itself to be that of Prof. J.P. Clark. I was utterly shocked and overwhelmed to hear from one of Africa's greatest literary figures.

Prof. JP Clark informed me that he had read my article about him and was also aware of the JP Clark Society that I had established. To my excitement, he extended an invitation for me to visit the University of Lagos to discuss the new initiative further.

The very next day, I found myself at the JP Clark Centre of the University of Lagos, where I had the privilege of meeting Prof. J.P. Clark and his Personal Assistant. He had been eagerly awaiting my arrival. During our meeting, he graciously offered me beer and snacks like cashew nuts and groundnuts.

As we sat together, Prof. J.P. Clark attentively reviewed the membership documents of the JP Clark Literary Society. During the discussion, he decided to rename the initiative, now calling it the JP Clark Society. He also took the time to edit and refine the mission, vision, and objectives of the Society, adding his invaluable insights and wisdom to the project.

On that eventful day, Professor J.P. Clark generously donated all of his complete works to the JP Clark Society, taking the time to personally autograph each book before presenting them to me. Alongside this, he expressed his desire to introduce me to Professor Hope Eghagha, who was then the Head of the Department of English at the University of Lagos.

Together, we headed to the Department to meet Prof. Eghagha, but unfortunately, we were informed that he had already stepped out. Disappointed but undeterred, we returned to the JP Clark Centre.

During our time together, Professor J.P. Clark wholeheartedly endorsed the JP Clark Society, and this remarkable visit was even featured in the Nigerian Tribune on April 22nd, 2016.

Before his passing, Professor J.P. Clark reassured us of his intention to provide financial support to the JP Clark Society, ensuring its continued growth and impact.

I was humbled and honored when Professor J.P. Clark commended me for the numerous Literary projects I was undertaking at that time. He also shared insightful stories of his days in the Mbari Club, which was once headed by the late Professor Ulli Beier.

Today, the JP Clark Society is taking strides towards its mission. We have already established a vibrant Facebook group, where members enthusiastically share articles, news, papers, and essays related to the life and legacy of the late Professor J.P. Clark. Additionally, we are currently working on creating a blog that will showcase his exceptional works and feature articles about his life and accomplishments.

Through the JP Clark Society, we are committed to preserving and promoting the life and works of Professor J.P. Clark, keeping his memory alive for generations to come.

As we move forward, we are hopeful that this year will see the JP Clark Society holding physical meetings, fostering a sense of community and collaboration among enthusiasts and scholars alike.

May the soul of Professor JP Clark rest in perfect peace. Amen.