Alan Hancock THE LOCUST RETRIBUTION The Locust Retribution is a readable, unusual and intriguing novella, set in a changing Southern Africa. The central character Jock, develops a growing awareness of local and world events. The time line moves from young memories of great sporting achievements and endeavours; such as the conquering of Everest and the 4-minute mile. Then adult reality reveals the harshness of apartheid, and the wonder of one-man, one-vote. Jock wrestles with God's 'radar', discovers 'mushy-hole' magic, and embraces hiking and running. (Fish River Canyon ... Comrades Marathon.) Mountaineers and boxers are his heroes.
Popular music is Jock's constant memory-therapy companion. His head-heart-gut feelings often guide him on decision making. He has issues with a single parent upbringing, but this strengthens his bonding to long term friendships (both black and white), and a tolerant lovely wife Colette. Characters including Benny, Patience, Simon, Cyclops Benson and raunchy T T, either enrich, or threaten to destroy his life. Cruelty to animals is abhorrent in Jock's world. Yet he believes in 'an eye for an eye'. Descriptions of people, places and events are rich and colourful: From halcyon days in Bulawayo, to scenic Cape Town, robust Jo'burg and windy Port Elizabeth. From repugnant politicians to untenable social engineering and colour paranoia. From despotic Mugabe to giants like Mandela; from haves to have-nots and BEE. From censorship to freedom of expression; hijackings and rape; kamikaze taxis and 'tenderpreneurs'. South Africa is a land of plenty - both beguiling and paradoxical. A land threatened by unemployment, poverty, crime, corruption, failing healthcare and dysfunctional education. So much so, that in 1985 Jock had already planned the emigration of family to England. Jock and Colette still live (cautiously) in SA, content their daughters and grandchildren are more secure in the UK. Maybe a land grab-banana republic won't descend on South Africa ...
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