Meaning: Bram Fischer, a South African lawyer and notable anti-apartheid activist, made this statement in a letter to his wife in 1966. At the time, he was serving a life sentence in prison for his involvement in the anti-apartheid movement and for his leadership in the Communist Party of South Africa. Fischer's words reflect a deep sense of introspection and a desire to understand the motivations that led him to join the Communist Party more than 25 years earlier.

Fischer's decision to join the Communist Party was a significant and controversial choice, particularly in the context of South African politics during the mid-20th century. Born into a prominent Afrikaner family, Fischer initially followed a conventional path, studying law at the University of the Witwatersrand and subsequently practicing as an advocate. However, his experiences and observations of the injustices perpetuated by the apartheid regime in South Africa compelled him to take a more radical stance.

In the 1940s, Fischer became increasingly involved in political activism, joining the African National Congress (ANC) and aligning himself with the anti-apartheid movement. The Communist Party, with its emphasis on social justice and equality, provided a natural ideological home for Fischer and many other anti-apartheid activists during this period. The party's commitment to challenging racial discrimination and advocating for the rights of workers and marginalized communities resonated with Fischer's growing disillusionment with the apartheid system.

Fischer's decision to join the Communist Party was driven by a combination of personal conviction and a deep-seated belief in the need for systemic change in South Africa. His commitment to the principles of socialism and his dedication to the struggle against apartheid were central to his motivations. The Communist Party offered a platform for Fischer to contribute to the broader anti-apartheid movement and to work towards a more just and equitable society.

In addition to his ideological alignment with the Communist Party, Fischer's decision was also influenced by the practical realities of the political landscape in South Africa at the time. The party played a significant role in organizing and mobilizing resistance to apartheid, and its members were actively involved in various forms of protest and activism. For Fischer, joining the Communist Party was a strategic choice that allowed him to collaborate with like-minded individuals and to participate in the broader struggle for liberation.

Fischer's reflections on his motivations for joining the Communist Party also shed light on the complex interplay of personal conviction, political ideology, and historical context. His willingness to critically examine his past decisions demonstrates a deep sense of introspection and a commitment to understanding the forces that shaped his own journey as an activist and a leader in the anti-apartheid movement.

In conclusion, Bram Fischer's introspective statement about his decision to join the Communist Party offers valuable insight into the complexities of political activism and the deeply personal motivations that drive individuals to take a stand against injustice. His words remind us of the importance of critically examining our own choices and motivations, particularly in the pursuit of social change and the advancement of human rights. Fischer's legacy as a principled and dedicated advocate for justice continues to inspire and resonate with those who continue to fight for a more just and equitable world.