Black writers: personal experience
Taiwo Olawole (Master of Public Policy, 2022) writes
Studying in Oxford was many things for me, but as a black woman who relishes in writing, I would say it was particularly astounding. This simply was because I had written the story of Oxford clearly on the pages of my mind, but the reality of living and studying in Oxford was much more than everything I ever imagined. Although creative writing was not my primary purpose in Oxford, getting the very hankered Master’s in Public Policy was my goal, so I may not have had the full experience of a black creative writer; however, in this article, I will share a few things that impacted my writing experience in Oxford.
As an African whose writing is inspired by the cultures I have experienced, the tradition and culture in Oxford were a major highlight for me. Stepping into Oxford was an enchanting realm where time seems to have stood still, and history continues to resonate through its magnificent architecture, traditions, and culture.
The sights of the magnificent Oxford Architecture are the perfect sites for a wanderlust to creativity. Oxford’s architecture is simply a symphony of designs, an opulent collage of elegance, hidden gems, secret gardens, tiny courtyards, and linked channels that leave an African like me gobsmacked at every turn. It was beautiful to see that each building told a unique story in the city’s rich chronicles. One of Oxford’s most iconic structures is the Radcliffe Cam, which embodies the Bodleian Library. This imposing tower preserves knowledge and wisdom of centuries past, which was, for me, on the one hand, a writer’s dream, but also, on the other hand, an intimidating edifice that emulsifies my emotions at almost every visit.
My friend once said there is no Oxford without its history and tradition, and indeed, I totally agree with her. It is the preservation and continuous practice of the tradition that makes Oxford a unique place. I particularly liked the tradition of formal college dinners, matriculations and graduation, which always features the echoes of Latin chants. Every one of the traditions was a cherished memory I was glad to participate in. Oxford’s cultural calendar is also a vibrant medley, from the exuberance of May Mornings with Morris dancers and colourful ribbons to the allure of literary festivals that certainly inspire any writer, including myself.
Without an iota of doubt, Oxford is a place of rigorous academic values and principles, and an intense workload, which at first put me under pressures related to stereotypes and biases, leading to feelings of imposter syndrome and the need to constantly prove my abilities. While I did not need to always prove myself as a writer because writing was not my primary assignment in Oxford, there was an invincible pressure to reflect my creativity in my academics. Sadly, I neither had the luxury of time nor the opportunity to explore my creativity, but I have made a promise to be back, just to write.
In the past, Oxford University has been criticized for its lack of diversity; I had imagined that in Oxford, I might visibly represent and be reminded that I am among a minority of students because of my race and ethnic background. However, Green Templeton College was particularly a place that fostered diversity, equality and inclusivity through its various student-led organizations and initiatives. The Black Student community was very supportive in this regard. The college also organized several writing workshops that helped me stay connected with writing. This and the array of many other resources provided by the university impacted my experience and perspectives as a passing black writer in Oxford.
In the end, I found that Oxford was not just a school; it was an emotion, an experience, albeit short-lived, that planted its root in my soul. Oxford captivated the reality of my dreams and ignited the writer in me again.
