Meaning: The quote refers to a significant event in the life of Jonathan Shapiro, a South African cartoonist better known by his pen name, Zapiro. The incident in question took place in 1987 when the security police sought out Shapiro due to a controversial drawing he had published. This event not only sheds light on the personal experiences of the artist but also serves as a reflection of the socio-political climate of South Africa during that time.

Jonathan Shapiro, or Zapiro, is a highly regarded and often controversial figure in the world of political cartooning. Throughout his career, he has used his art to comment on and critique various aspects of South African society, particularly focusing on issues such as corruption, racism, and political leadership. His work is characterized by its boldness and fearlessness in addressing contentious topics, often drawing the attention and ire of those in power.

The fact that the security police came looking for Shapiro in response to one of his drawings is indicative of the fraught and oppressive environment in which he was operating. During the late 1980s, South Africa was in the grip of apartheid, a system of institutionalized racial segregation and discrimination enforced by the National Party government. The government was known for its harsh crackdown on dissent and its suppression of freedom of expression, particularly when it came to challenging the status quo or criticizing the regime.

It is important to note that Shapiro's drawing, which sparked the attention of the security police, was likely to have been a provocative commentary on the political situation in South Africa at that time. His willingness to tackle sensitive issues through his art made him a target for authorities who sought to maintain control and suppress any form of resistance or opposition.

The incident serves as a powerful reminder of the risks faced by artists and activists who dared to challenge the oppressive regime. It also underscores the power of political satire and visual commentary in exposing and challenging injustice, even in the face of potential repercussions.

In the broader context of South African history, Shapiro's experience is just one example of the many individuals who faced threats, censorship, and persecution for their resistance to apartheid. The struggle for freedom of expression and the right to dissent was a central aspect of the wider anti-apartheid movement, and Shapiro's ordeal is a testament to the bravery and resilience of those who fought against the injustices of the time.

Shapiro's career has continued to thrive in the post-apartheid era, and he remains a prominent and influential voice in South African media and political discourse. His cartoons continue to provoke and challenge, addressing contemporary issues and holding power to account. The incident from 1987 stands as a formative moment in his career, highlighting the enduring significance and impact of his work in the realm of political commentary and social criticism.

In conclusion, the quote encapsulates a pivotal moment in the life of Jonathan Shapiro, also known as Zapiro, when the security police sought him out due to a controversial drawing he had published. This event serves as a poignant reflection of the oppressive climate of apartheid-era South Africa and the risks faced by those who dared to challenge the status quo. It also underscores the enduring power of political satire and visual commentary in exposing and challenging injustice, as well as the resilience of individuals who continue to use their art to provoke, critique, and inspire change.