Moses McKenzie, a Bristolian author, shares his perspective on masculinity, liberation, and community in his novel “Fast by the Horns.” The story is set in the Rastafari community of St Paul’s in 1980, where racism was prevalent, and the police harassed the residents. Despite these challenges, the community built mechanisms for self-sufficiency and independence from the oppressive white system of ‘Babylon.’ The men in the community shouldered the responsibility of seeking freedom from Babylon and returning to Ethiopia.
The novel explores the relationship between father and son amidst heightened political tensions, providing a unique perspective on masculinity. McKenzie delves into the idea of liberation and how it may not be inclusive of everyone, particularly women. He highlights the contradictions within liberation movements that often exclude women, mirroring the hypocrisy of certain religions that preach love but marginalize women.
McKenzie also reflects on masculinity as a form of disassociation, where men are expected to suppress their feelings and emotions. He describes how the protagonist, Jabari, is separated from his mother at birth, symbolizing the detachment from his emotions. Despite the nurturing care provided by the women elders in the community, the masculine responsibility of providing and achieving societal expectations takes precedence.
The author draws parallels between the challenges faced by men in the 1980s and the disenfranchisement experienced by young black men today. He notes a sense of apathetic nihilism among the youth, driven by factors such as poverty, generational trauma, and the absence of a strong Black consciousness. McKenzie emphasizes the importance of community and collectivism, contrasting it with the individualistic nature of some young people today.
In a society where reports of violence and the crisis of masculinity are prevalent, McKenzie’s novel offers a poignant exploration of masculinity, liberation, and community dynamics. Through his rich storytelling and vivid portrayal of St Paul’s, he invites readers to reflect on the complexities of manhood, the quest for freedom, and the power of community in navigating societal challenges.