FS LITERATURE: 2015 OVERVIEW

2015 was probably the year that the world-heralded genre of literary criticism reached a peak in the Free State, with the publication of at least two excellent works of this persuasion. Over the years Pule Lechesa had already established himself as a formidable figure in regards literary criticism. This year he cemented his reputation by publishing a polished, authoritative monograph on Sesotho literary legend, K. P. D Maphalla.

As award winning Ladybrand novelist, George Rampai, put it: "Mr Lechesa is a glittering literary gift, and pride of the Free State. His panoply of publications on literary appreciation since 2005 mark him out as one of the finest in the continent,". Interestingly, in recent years, Mangaung's Ishmael Mzwandile Soqaga has also been growing by leaps and bounds as a powerful literary reviewer and critic. His colourful, pungent language and pan-African outlook remain useful tools, as he published a very important work, Glimpses into African Literature, in 2015.

The book continues to attract praise across the board, including from specialists like the Centre for African Literature (KwaZulu Natal University). The book contains many essays on African literature, and works produced by writers spread across the whole continent. As usual, the FS poets continued to spread their wings not only within the Province, and country; but also internationally. Performers like Nthabiseng Jah Rose Jafta, "Icebound" Serame Makhele, Raselebeli Khotseng, Charmaine Kolwane, and Hector Kunene continue to perform wonders.

As an added bonus, Mr Hector Kunene actually graced the Maun International Poetry Festival in Botswana where he walked away with one of the prestigious awards. In 2015 also, poet Skietreker got to travel the world. A string of powerful articles and essays on literature in general were also published in a number of FS newspapers and other publications this year. It is exhilarating that most of such writings have now not only been published in diverse books and journals, but also on the internet at large for writers, poets and scholars worldwide to consult anytime. Kudos to media individuals like Tumisang Biggie Takang, and Sidwell Guduka (below)who have gone out of their way to ensure such publications in the FS local media this year.