U Tamsi was born in Mpili Congo Brazzaville, but moved to France in 1946. He died in Oise, France in 1988. Like David Diop, U Tamsis poetry is colloquial and spoken. Though informal, his work is sophisticated, mocking, and rife with dark humor. He juxtaposes vivid historic images and symbolic, even surrealist, renderings of reality, producing a powerful commentary on not only African life, but the human condition. His forays into the meaning of blackness contribute to Senghors negritude, providing valuable insights into race and significance. A journalist, activist, and strong supporter of Lumumba, U Tamsi was a vital member of the Congolese independence movement. As such, his work reflects a harsh view of the world, but a reverence for new beginnings.

Website: http://web.uflib.ufl.edu/cm/africana/utamsi.htm