No Problem (1996)

"No Problem" By Benjamin Zephaniah

Context

Benjamin Zephaniah is a British poet and activist known for addressing issues of social justice, race, and equality. In No Problem, written in 1996, he reflects on his own experiences with racism and stereotyping in Britain. The poem challenges assumptions and prejudices, calling for a society that values individuals for who they truly are rather than judging them by their race or background.

The Poem

I am not de problem But I bear de brunt Of silly playground taunts An racist stunts,

← Repetition

I am not de problem I am born academic But dey got me on de run Now I am branded athletic

← Irony

I am not de problem If yu give I a chance I can teach yu of Timbuktu I can do more dan dance,

I am not de problem I greet yu wid a smile Yu put me in a pigeon hole But I am versatile

← Metaphor

These conditions may affect me As I get older, An I am positively sure I have no chips on me shoulders,

← Idiom

Black is not de problem Mother country get it right An juss fe de record, Sum of me best friends are white.

← Direct address

5 quotes + analysis to achieve a grade 9

1. "I am not de problem"

• Device: Repetition
• Analysis: The repetition of this phrase throughout the poem emphasises the speaker's assertion that their identity is not the issue but rather the prejudice and stereotyping they face. It highlights the frustration of being judged unfairly based on race.

2. "But dey got me on de run / Now I am branded athletic"

• Device: Irony
• Analysis: The speaker points out the stereotype of Black individuals being naturally athletic, showing how labels limit people to specific roles or abilities. The irony underscores the frustration of being reduced to a stereotype.

3. "Yu put me in a pigeon hole / But I am versatile"

• Device: Metaphor
• Analysis: The metaphor of a "pigeon hole" symbolises the restrictive categorisation of individuals based on race. The assertion of versatility challenges these narrow perceptions, asserting the speaker's multifaceted identity.

4. "I have no chips on me shoulders"

• Device: Idiom
• Analysis: This line rejects the stereotype of the "angry Black person" by addressing the assumption directly. It suggests that the speaker's frustration stems not from bitterness but from the unfairness of racism.

5. "Mother country get it right"

• Device: Direct Address
• Analysis: Addressing Britain as the "mother country" highlights the expectation that it should treat its citizens with fairness and equality. The phrase calls for systemic change and justice, emphasising the poet's hope for progress.

Form & Structure Points

• Colloquial Language: The use of non-standard English reflects the speaker's voice and cultural identity, making the poem relatable and authentic.
• Repetition: The refrain "I am not de problem" reinforces the central argument, giving the poem a strong rhythm and emphasis.
• Conversational Tone: The informal and direct tone engages the reader, making the critique of racism accessible and impactful.

Themes

1. Racism and Stereotyping: The poem critiques how society judges people based on race, showing the harmful effects of stereotypes.
2. Identity and Versatility: Zephaniah celebrates the speaker's multifaceted identity, rejecting narrow labels and emphasising individual potential.
3. Systemic Inequality: The call for the "mother country" to "get it right" highlights the need for institutional change to address racism and create equality.

Example Paragraph for a Grade 9 Answer:

In No Problem, Zephaniah challenges racial stereotypes through repetition and metaphor to highlight the harm caused by prejudice. The repeated line "I am not de problem" emphasises the speaker's frustration with being unfairly judged and suggests that the issue lies with societal racism, not the individual. The metaphor "Yu put me in a pigeon hole / But I am versatile" symbolises the restrictive categorisation of Black people, portraying how stereotypes fail to capture the complexity of identity. Furthermore, the direct address in "Mother country get it right" calls out Britain's systemic inequality, urging reform and fairness. By using colloquial language and a conversational tone, Zephaniah makes the poem relatable and authentic, reinforcing his critique of racism and his celebration of individuality. This powerfully conveys the message that society must move beyond labels and value people for who they truly are.