« Nos commandes de boulettes varient . Mais une chose est sûre ... Quelle que soit la commande , le résultat , c ’ est toujours un grand sourire ! – ek enn vant bien ron . »
“ Our orders for dumplings may change . But one thing ’ s certain … No matter what we order , the end result is always a big smile ! – ek enn vant bien ron ”.
The Creole phrase that captures the essence of your writings ?
Aparté
Why did you choose the name “ Konfizri ”?
During the first lockdown , I created an account named “ Konfidense ”. But shortly after , I felt the need to break away from the anxiety-inducing madness of Covid and go towards a lighter and more positive tone . And that is how “ de-trwa konfizri pou lespri ” was born … I think of it as little treats for the soul !
What do you wish to convey to your readers ?
Initially , it started off as me wanting to share poetry , but then I read somewhere that Creole was sometimes perceived as crude , and I had an epiphany of sorts . In fact , Creole can be graceful , uplifting and deeply moving . So , why not have all these beautiful quotes and amusing texts we often come across on social media , but … in Creole ? And that became the very crux of Konfizri today .
How would you describe your connection with the Creole language ?
When I write and play with words in Creole , it ’ s like venturing into uncharted territory where I ’ m constantly expanding my vocabulary . For instance , take concepts like selfesteem or self-empowerment , they ’ re sparsely discussed in Creole . And exploring these themes in our local language has opened up new avenues for discussion and reflection .
Would you say that Creole holds a unique power over other languages in capturing certain emotions ?
I wouldn ’ t say that it ’ s necessarily more powerful , but definitely more relevant for Mauritians . Creole authentically reflects our culture and national pride ; it ’ s woven into our DNA .
“ Avoy ferfout ”. It ’ s like our way of saying “ leave it be ”, but it definitely packs an extra punch ! It speaks to the simplicity of the Mauritian way of life . Us Mauritius , we ’ re humble folks , and we often overlook the treasure that ’ s right beneath our feet . And if we choose to embrace that life with a carefree spirit , it can lead us to so many greater things …
The best Creole expression , in your opinion , would be ?
I don ’ t think it ’ s been written yet , but I can ’ t wait to read it !
What would be the Creole expression you find the hardest to translate ?
“ Kaka fane ”. It ’ s not exactly the most politically correct expression , but it carries both positive and negative connotations . It can insinuate both extreme joy or distress ; and what a challenge trying to explain it in another language !
29