Fundamental Issues

Colonialists used to be a mix of foolhardy French, Dutch and wot-nots believing in destiny.

Destiny came to the most southern tip of Africa and thus began the stormy history of invading, enslaving and inter-breeding with who-ever happened to be around. One consequence of this behaviour is a coffee colored green-eyed type famously known for the saying "Your mother’s ***" and proudly referring to themselves as "Hotnots".

There are a couple of names for white South Africans: Colonialists, Boer, Kafferboeties, Dutchmen, etc. An altogether strange sound had been added and in recent years became the known chant “Kill the farmer, Kill the Boer”.

Since I am in a fragile frame of mind, following a weekend of screwing the cork, it may be a good idea steering away from sounds of war-cry. But I recently discovered an old saying which originated in Kenya. Surely older folks will know about the "Rock-spider”?

Ever the innocent, I learned its meaning when as usual, it was too late. A close friend laughed her head off when I recited an episode of being called a Rock-spider and asking if she thought there was a sinister meaning behind the word. I received an elaborate description of the real meaning, between gulps and sniggers. When she finally looked at me expectantly, I felt deeply miffed. Insulted, deprived and robbed of something called 'my pride'.

A tit of a Redneck had called me a Rock-spider. Sly beast had cast bate into my neck of the woods and this former Dutchman-Colonialist had gone straight for it, having no inkling nor any idea...