Wednesday, January 5, 2011

APPRECIATING "HOLD BACK YOUR TEARS"

Book: Hold back your tears
Author: Raselebeli Khotseng
Publisher: Eselby Jnr Publications
Reviewer: Rebaone Motsalane


Hailed as one of the best poetry books released in 2010, “Magic” Khotseng has received rave reviews so far.

With that under his belt, I was determined to take a different approach and be as “objective” as possible as I felt that maybe the reviews were too good to be true. A few pages later, my “objective opinion” crumbled, and I joined the praise-singing band!

This book is long overdue and indeed one of the best of the best released in 2010. However his raw emotions and telling poetry like it is really made me question his experiences in life. He writes very well about the sufferings of this world and there is no way one can remain the same after reading these poems.

He points out so many injustices in this world; apartheid, poverty and general sufferings. Every poem that I read made me question my contribution in this world. Am I making a positive change in the lives of others? When he writes about the sufferings of the street kids, one can hope and pray that there is immediate change.

I was glad when I could finally get a very positive poem about one of the apartheid stalwarts and celebrated political icons in the (Free State) province, Mme Winkie Direko. I only wish she could get a copy of this book and realise the positive change she has made in the lives of many. I truly love this poem.

The book is for anyone who enjoys poetry and for those who will be able to hold back their tears as they read about the true suffering that others have endured in their lives. Count your blessings and give thanks to the Lord!
- Originally published in Mangaung Issue

3 comments:

Jerry said...

Wonderful. The author of the book is obviously a powerful, relevant poet to affect the reviewer like this

Jennifer said...

lo, I am doing research on the Free State Black writing renaissance and am looking to purchase or get review copies of books by Raselebeli Khotseng, Omoseye Bolaji, Pule Lechesa, Hector Kunene and others. Where are these books available for purchase? Or, who can I contact them to purchase or request review copies directly?

Thank you and I look forward to your reply.

All the best,

Jennifer

Jennifer said...

sorry, typo at the beginning. That should read "hello".

Thanks,
Jennifer