Theo Wassenaar (1892–1982)

Abstract This chapter contains a translation and IPA transcription of a poem by Theo Wassenaar, “Sea Sonnet.” Wassenar was a medical doctor, poet, translator, founding member of the F.A.K., champion of the Afrikaans language and Afrikaner cultural identity, and the first winner of the Totius prize (1977). “Sea Sonnet” is part of Wassenar’s first poetry collection, published in 1921, titled “Poems.” It references the poet’s desire to be one with the universe. Set to music by P. J. de Villiers, “Sea Sonnet” is scored for medium-high/high voice, preferable dramatic soprano. De Villiers was highly regarded for his musical settings of poetry by the acclaimed poet Boerneef. Topics include the sea, nature, and the poet’s sense of their place in the universe.