BOLAJI IN HIS POMP (Literary study)

Matshidiso revels at MACUFE Spectacle

Matshidiso Taleng (above), one of the most vibrant female bards in the Province, is still bristling with glee after performing with Kabomo this week. “I was very inspired by Kabomo and felt very honoured to share the stage with him. Wow he is so talented”. Taleng disclosed that Rita Chihawa of Arts Amuse was the one who organized the show. “Rita called me and told me I will be performing at the Macufe Poetry. “It was so exhilarating! I performed Pantsula guy, Plastic, I should have locked the door. most of the people looked touched at my pieces; even the MC addressed how the issue of rape should be addressed”. Taleng said: “I usually enjoy performing on stage but this time around I felt so free, it was somewhat different. I may have been nervous initially, but as soon as I got on the stage I got into my act with brio!” She reiterated that she enjoyed the show very much and was glad to be part of it. “The audience was attentive with a large number of people attending. What a night! It was really intimate and really awesome. “I really am blessed this year in connection with my art, as I have been showcasing my burgeoning art at exalted occasions. I performed at the Vuka Festival, in Grahamstown, and now Macufe. I will also be performing at the Wordfest.” The sassy lady pointed out that she holds the mammoth Macufe in high esteem. “For me Macufe is all about history in the making. I am glad that the future generations coming after me will know that I was a part of this great spectacle. I am also glad about the fact that doors are being opened for many local artists… and we must grasp the chance of filling these big gaps,” And if Taleng could re-create her debut Macufe outing? “Honestly if I could do it again, wow I would do it in a heartbeat!” - Letshego Moeng

COLLECTED POEMS By O Bolaji

Sponsored by National Arts Council of South Africa

MPHUTLANE MESMERISES BLOEM WITH HIS POETRY

The Bloem Poetry had once organised a high-class poetry session last Thursday on the 12th September 2013 at PACOFS. The event which was in line with honour to the late struggle icon, Steve Bantu Biko was scheduled at 6 p.m with tickets being sold out for the day. Amongst those in the line-up was the prolific, exalted poet Mphutlane wa Bofelo. The full house event kicked off with amazing dancers who made audience to stand on their feet. Before the actual line-up there was an open mic session for other acclaimed poets such as T-Cap, Charmaine, Hector and Thembile the drum poet to mention but a few. Afterwards the line-up started with applause with Matshidiso Taleng, Ntate Thabo and Black Rose. Others in the line-up were Ice Bound, Magic and Dr Kool. No wonder the event was so special – graced by other literary icons like Job Mzamo, Rita and Skietreker. Before Mputlane performed, Ice Bound a poet and organiser of the event introduced him (Mphutlane) by reading his short biographer. As he took the stage Mphutlane mesmerized the audience when he recited special poems dedicated to Biko. Some of the pieces he performed he read from his array of poetry books. The event was closed with sweet music from the D.J. what an occasion! - By Raselebeli Khotseng

LITERARY WORKSHOP SPARKS KUDOS

A distinguished writer and publisher of note, Pule Lechesa facilitated over an imaginative writing workshop held in Bloemfontein, Motheo College last weekend (Saturday, August 24). This well orchestrated one-day-workshop was held in collaboration with a National Arts Council sponsored company, Arts Amuse – company that promotes grassroots literature. Rita Chihawa (pix), supremo of Arts Amuse who is a well known poet herself was also in her element.

A group of well over thirty young budding writers, singers and actors from Thaba-Nchu and around Bloemfontein were agog with excitement as Mr Lechesa strutted his mentoring stuff. This literary protagonist and mentor who has published some eight books explained the importance of having the workshops. “We have realized that creative writing talent in the Free State Province is aplenty; however people do not know where to go with their manuscripts. Our aim is to help to rekindle their creative talents and to help those who has already finished their books get published,” said Lechesa. He also explained that he is touring around the province unearthing raw talent in the small towns that ‘are always pushed in the peripheral’ when it comes to talent development. “There are towns that we all know that talent scouts reckon are remote and hardly visit and those are towns that we will visit. I have in mind towns such as Clocolan, Thaba Phatsoa, Gariep, Excelsior and so forth.” Lechesa (pix) concluded by saying he is in talks with Sesotho Literary Museum curator, Ntate Tseliso Masolane on how can they roll out the projects promoting writing in indigenous languages.

One of the attendants, Rosalia Nkete gave her overall impression of the workshop, as she beamed with excitement. “Some workshops are always talk-shops hence I was debating with my twin sister (Rosa) whether to come or not. We do not regret coming to this one as it very was very informative. I enjoyed the part when he (Lechesa) was dealing with how a writer can unlock his/her creative juices at all times,” she explained, Rosalia added that henceforth she was going to put into practice advice from the facilitator that writers must keep a journal at all times as it helps jotting ideas down immediately as they come. “In the past I would have a brilliant idea while at school only to find that when I get home the idea is gone. I was beginning to doubt my creativity but he allayed my fears by saying I am experiencing what he called ‘Writer’s block’ which is common in most writers,’’ noted Rosalia. The workshop became lively when the participants were given a platform to showcase their own talent by reciting their poems and singing.

Book: KUNLE APANTAKU

Glittering Book Exhibitions for FS writers

It was a laudable literary occasion as an exhibition of Free State books took place at NALN in Bloemfontein. The event, dubbed the “Sesotho literature Museum in Dialogue’ took place last Friday (21st June) under the theme: “Free State Literature legacy - the case of Young Blood,” The occasion was graced by Department of Arts and Culture officials and its choir (DSACR Choir). Library services officials, Pansalb, authors and writers. The DSACR Choir entertained the guests before the starting of the actual programme, whilst the guests regaled themselves by basking in the books on display at the NALN auditorium. Big photos of well known writers were also displayed for attendees to know more about their literary icons. After the exhibition of books, Mr Montwedi Lebakeng, a conductor for the Choir led his charges for a final opening of the programme. Afterwards, the programme Director, Mr Tseliso Masolane (pix above) called Mr Mathene Mahanke, a deputy-director for Language Services to present a brief word on behalf of Mr V.S Khetha, the director for Heritage, Museums and Language Services. In his deliberations, Mr Mahanke advised local writers to hone their craft even more and improve fastidiously in the process. He said the exhibition was revelatory. “This is the beginning of very big things to come for our writers if they take this opportunity seriously,” Mr Masolane pointed out that Ntate Mahanke had played a pivotal role by laying remembrance stones of the history of the Museum back in 2006. Additionally, as a way of reviving the spirit of reading, Masolane read a poem from Staffriders poetry book, churned out by erstwhile great writers. There was an ‘open mic’ session for poetry renditions performed by proficient poets like Job Mzamo, “Magic” Khotseng, T. Cap and the precocious Dr Cool. Mme Dunne presented her speech on behalf of publishing houses. She answered questions from the floor about book publication and relevant processes to be followed. Such questions included why an author might be saddled with lesser benefits compared to publishers. Mr Mzamo encouraged publishers and writers to know their rights and responsibilities when they sign a contract. Mr Masolane played a screen video about the life and times of Mr. Thomas Mokopu Mofolo, one of the distinguished literary icons, to motivate burgeoning writers. Meanwhile, Mr Zak Montewa, acting Assistant Director at Provincial Museum, gave the vote of thanks. By Raselebeli Khotseng (Courtesy Free State News)

LECHESA: THIS IS BOON FOR F.S LITERATURE

There has been an astonishing output of published books in the Free State this year. Literary experts told Free State News this week that this phenomenon should not be considered as anything negative, but rather as a step in the right direction. Works published thus far have embraced so many genres; including fiction, poetry, literary criticism, and general studies. Pundits say this further confirms the tremendous progress Black writing continues to make in the Free State. But what about others who are uneasy with this development? “I think it is very much welcome,” renowned literary critic, Pule Lechesa, said. “We have come a very long way within a short time. “We must continue to move forward. I was a bit worried some years ago that the focus here was too much on poetry; but these days – especially this year - the process has become much more balanced and eclectic.” Lechesa added that he was not worried about the possibility of some of these published works being “sub-standard”. He said: “It’s pretty much the same all over the world, even in advanced Eurocentric societies. Some very good books are published, some are average, and some not-so-good or of terribly high literary quality. But books must always be churned out…the wheat will be separated from the chaff in the course of time,” “I am actually happy to see so many writers coming out and publishing. It is healthy and fecund,” he went on. “The confidence is there now. The sacrifices of the likes of Bolaji and Qoopane are bearing fruit now. Our people should read even more and more. It is paradoxical that book publishing is much more expensive now, yet more and more books are seeing the light of the day; this points to enlightenment on the part of the people,” But Lechesa admitted that he is indeed a bit worried about escalating costs of bringing books out. “Yes, that is something we have to deal with. Fewer people can buy books now and it is a pity the whole thing might even be moving along elitist lines…the ideal thing is for books to be affordable to most potential readers. Many fine readers of books now do say that they might not be able to afford to buy as many books as they would love to…but on the whole the situation is vibrant in the FS, with perceptive reviews, interviews, and the positive role of the libraries,” * Courtesy of Free State News

SECRETS by Matshidiso P. Taleng

Thami Moleko remembered

It was a sombre occasion interspersed with celebration as the late Thami Moleko was remembered fondly in the City of Roses. Speaker after speaker extolled his contributions to arts and culture during his rather brief life. The opening and welcome was done by the convivial MC, Icebound Makhele. After the official opening, Mr Mike Nthuping, a mentor to the late Moleko went down memory lane explaining how his talents blossomed under difficult circumstances as he was struggling to possess basic resources. He said: “I arranged with other comrades to assist him with basic needs such as food, transport and clothes. I was delighted later on to hear the many good things he went on to do for fellow artists including providing platforms for budding artists to express themselves,” Many other speakers described Thami as a man of his words, a man of integrity, a honest literary and arts giant who never reneged on his decision to appease his subordinates. The main memorial lecture was presented by Mr Kingdom Moshounyane, a lecturer from the University of Technology in Pretoria. “The life history of the late Thami was anchored on sacrifice and determination.” He took this opportunity to encourage artists also to remember other artists like Gilbert Modise who came before and after. The event was blessed with revolutionary poems by the likes of the iconic Jah-Rose, Hector Kunene, Charmaine Kolwane, Magic Khotseng and others. Jah Rose and Icebound fondly stated that they were part of those groomed by Thami. The vote of thanks was done by Charmaine. - Raselebeli Khotseng

CHARMAINE KOLWANE'S LATEST STUDY

YOUNG FS WRITER PUBLISHES STIRRING SPIRITUAL BOOK

Teboho Masakala is fast making a name for himself as one of the most prolific, fecund young writers in the country. The 24-year-old from Thaba Nchu has published his fourth book titled “Shout to The Lord, The Spiritual Corner”. This book of course has spiritual overtones and it’s aimed to win souls for Christ. The book’s purpose is also to motivate and uplift souls. Masakala has also published three other books over the past three years; namely, Mind, pen, paper and ideas (2010), Through it all (2011) and The fall of Marcus Desmond which was published last year. According to Masakala, he has been in love with writing from his primary school days in Thaba Nchu at Selosesha primary school; and also while in high school at Goronyane High School (also in Thaba Nchu). Speaking to Free State News, Masakala vouchsafed that he got inspired to write a spiritual book by God Almighty. “The bible tells us to go out there and spread the word of God and I wanted to do my part also”, said Masakala. He added: “The book is an encouraging, motivating and soul uplifting one, and it has messages for young and old people. The book has titles such as a True friend is Jesus, which tells readers why is it is important for us to make Jesus our friend and the benefits of making Jesus our friend”. The book is now available at Kopano Christian Bookshop at Sanlam Plaza in Bloemfontein. Masakala states that he got inspired by many writers who influenced him in writing books. Writers like Omoseye Bolaji, Nic Vuvujic, TD Jakes, Tshepiso Mothata, Bongiwe Kankalane and Prophet TB Joshua inspired Masakala who believes their zeal for God’s work is great. “With this book, I want God to touch people’s lives, uplift them and make them know that God is alive" said Masakala. Pundits are already insisting that the book is spiritually reviving, motivating and a must have as it inspires. To get the book contact Teboho Masakala on 078 1245 396 or visit his blog/website on www.tmasakala.blogspot.com or get it at Kopano Christian bookshop - Sanlam plaza. - Nthabiseng Lisele

Pule Lechesa writes on elementary research in Omoseye Bolaji's fiction

The world of imaginative writing is often a tricky business – in fiction for example we have to create convincing characters, dialogue, plots etc. There might be an underlying agenda on the author’s part, but once this is kept subtle the work will probably be successful. It is also often important that the author must be familiar with what he or she is writing about; even any pertinent research should be incorporated comfortably into the text. Yes, research. This can also be very important. There are important writers out there who have ensured that the research in their writings is incorporated regularly into their work. Dick Francis is a fine example, a master of thrillers and mystery writing. He delves into so many topics in his disparate works of fiction, and the technical research in many of them is quite impressive. This type of research can be seen in many of the creative works of Omoseye Bolaji too. What I admire most about such “research” is the way such is woven easily into the fabric of his imaginative works especially the Tebogo Mystery series. Take Tebogo Fails (2003) for example – the third in the Tebogo series. I doubt whether Bolaji ever lived in Botshabelo (in the Free State) but many readers and critics have pointed out that they are impressed with the way Bolaji writes about Botshabelo as if he is a denizen of the area, talking about the different ‘Sections’ there authoritatively. In Tebogo and the Haka (2008) the reader is introduced to the fascinating spectacle of the haka performance as dished out by the “All Blacks” (New Zealand Rugby team). There can be no doubt that the author has done some research here, especially when the Maori text of the haka is actually reproduced in the work: Ringa pakia! Uma tiraha! Turi whatia! Hope whai ake! Waewae takahia kia kino! Ka mate, ka mate Ka ora' Ka ora' Ka mate, ka mate Ka ora Ka ora " Tēnei te tangata pūhuruhuru Nāna i tiki mai whakawhiti te rā A Upane! Ka Upane! Upane Kaupane" Whiti te rā,! Hī! (Tebogo and Haka) And in Ask Tebogo (2004) there are series of essays placed in the text of the whole mystery. Whilst some critics have found such “essays” jarring, the fact is that the author included many of these incidents and essays based on what was actually happening in the real world at the time; as it is explained even before the book starts: “This is a work of fiction, although the news items, dates and events referred to in the Essay in Chapter 10 are factual...” This is part of the research I am referring to. In Tebogo and the pantophagist (2010) the focus of the author here is mainly on the significance of important discoverers, inventors, scientists who laid the platform for the scientific marvels in the world today. Nowadays alas we take all these things for granted as if they just came from nowhere; but Bolaji, a veritable thinker and perhaps mystic to boot, goes to the root of these things; paying tribute to those who discovered things like electricity and television – never mind latest fads like tweeter et al. In Tebogo and the pantophagist, Bolaji creates his own African scientist who realises the importance of the pioneers who largely sacrificed their whole lives to discovering early versions of our modern marvels. But it is all done in creative fashion; starting with Tebogo talking to his superior: “I guess we should talk now. Tell me – what do you know about the likes of Alexander Graham Bell, Galileo Galilei, Janssen, Roger Bacon,, James Watt, Louis Pasteur…?” “Hmm,” I said, “they were all great inventors weren’t they? Bell invented the telephone; Janssen the microscope, Roger Bacon gunpowder; Watt the steam engine or train…Galileo – the telescope?” The flamboyant man nodded. “You tried; but you have to do better. Much better...”. A bit later on, he adds: “You see, you must get close to the pantophagist “ I winced. “The what?” “The pantophagist. It’s still the same man (Mr Shasha) but we like to call him pantophagist because he has a reputation for eating all types of food, without somehow getting tired, sick, or fat. It’s like chewing the cud or something, perhaps….” The latest Tebogo Mystery, Tebogo and the bacchae (2012) might not have needed much research if any, but there are still glimpses of knowledge easily incorporated into the work. When Sibusiso for example is rattled at the way a parrot talks, we read (from Linda): Linda...had trained John the parrot in her spare time. She added: “You see, it's a bit interesting. Parrots do not have vocal cords so to speak. They somewhat expel air across the mouth of their trachea...their bifurcated trachea...” She stared at Julia... This brief passage again highlights another thing Bolaji is noted for, his brevity. He seems to be always aware that he is writing for a certain audience that he would not want to “bore” with too many details. The depressing fact is that not too many of our (Black people in Africa) are reading and as an African great like Taban lo Liyong (critic and essayist) once pointed out), writers should not be too tedious in their approach to writing. Arguably when it comes to the many literary allusions that often dot Bolaji’s, work he might not need to do any research at all in this sphere as this is one of his fortes, as it were. Such literary devices or allusions seem to come easily to a writer like Bolaji; and the reader, especially those still finding their feet, will always learn from this. The point is: when we read new books, new imaginative works we tend to take a lot for granted. As critics we can even slam or damn the entire creative process including the underlying research done by the author. This does not however mean that the author is not appreciated. Taking time to focus on any writer itself is actually a sort of tribute. Often, the more research the author does, the more successful the work is. (Pule Lechesa, a literary critic, is putting finishing touches to a new study titled ‘Bolaji in his pomp’)

NEW BOOK BY BENNET MKHEHLANE

By now it is clear that the author, Bennet Mkheklane, is a very powerful motivator, and a deeply spiritual individual. This book, titled MR KGAILE, YOU WERE WRONG is his second publication and confirms the promise of his first work. His debut book, titled ‘A Passion to Serve’ was a great success, and elements of the book can be seen in the second. The strain of spirituality runs through the work as we are urged to abide by the word of God. The author covers many topics and subjects that are part of daily life. The emphasis is always on the positive and it is obvious that the author goes out of his way to ensure that the spiritual path is the only real fruitful path. There are examples taken from around the world, especially the United States of America which has always been a vibrant and fruitful source of so many exciting things; with colourful characters and a lot of publicity. I enjoyed the wide discourse and advice on marital conflicts late on in this new book. Here the author shows humility and empathy; even pointing out what could be his own weaknesses as a human being in keeping his family together. This is the work of a very intelligent person, already making a difference in our society. Despite the rather controversial reference in the title, this is another thorough work to cherish. - R Khotseng (Courtesy, Free State News)