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Athol Fugard's Cousins: A Memoir of Family, Friendship, and Forgiveness

Matt Reed

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Athol Fugard's Cousins is a powerful and moving memoir about the author's relationship with his family and friends. The book explores themes of love, loss, and forgiveness, and is sure to resonate with readers of all ages.

Early Life

Fugard was born in 1932 in Port Elizabeth, South Africa. His parents were both teachers, and his childhood was happy and secure. However, his life took a dramatic turn when he was 10 years old. His father died suddenly, and his mother was forced to take a job in a factory to support the family.

Cousins: A Memoir

by Athol Fugard

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2125 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	171 pages

Fugard's mother was a strong and determined woman, but she was also deeply affected by her husband's death. She became increasingly withdrawn and depressed. Fugard was left to care for his younger sisters, and he often felt overwhelmed by the responsibility.

Discovering Theatre

In his early teens, Fugard discovered theatre. He was drawn to the power of storytelling and the ability of theatre to illuminate the human condition. He began writing plays and performing them in local churches and schools.

Fugard's passion for theatre helped him to cope with the challenges he faced in his personal life. It gave him a sense of purpose and belonging. He also found solace in the company of his cousins, who were always there for him.

Political Activism

In the 1950s, Fugard became increasingly involved in the anti-apartheid movement. He wrote plays that explored the injustices of the system, and he participated in protests and demonstrations.

Fugard's political activism put him in danger. He was arrested and detained several times. He was also blacklisted by the government, which made it difficult for him to find work.

Exile

In 1960, Fugard was forced to leave South Africa. He went into exile in London, where he continued to write plays and work for the anti-apartheid movement.

Fugard's exile was a difficult time for him. He missed his family and friends, and he was deeply concerned about the situation in South Africa. However, he also used his time in exile to write some of his most powerful and moving plays.

Return to South Africa

In 1990, Fugard was finally able to return to South Africa. He was greeted as a hero, and his plays were once again performed in his home country.

Fugard continued to write plays until his death in 2010. He was a prolific and influential playwright, and his work has been translated into more than 30 languages.

Cousins

Fugard's memoir Cousins is a deeply personal and moving account of his life. The book explores themes of love, loss, and forgiveness, and is sure to resonate with readers of all ages.

In Cousins, Fugard writes about his relationship with his family and friends. He tells stories about his childhood, his political activism, and his exile. He also writes about his struggles with depression and addiction.

Fugard's memoir is a powerful and moving testament to the human spirit. It is a story of love, loss, and forgiveness, and it is a story that will stay with readers long after they finish reading it.

Cousins: A Memoir

by Athol Fugard

4.5 out of 5