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Beleaguered Africa needs exemplary leadership

2012-02-01T06:26:00.001-08:00

By Ishmael Mzwandile Soqaga

Certainly Africa has a colossal, chequered history to boast about, for long time
that this giant continent existed and received absolute recognition
from the great book the Bible, Quran, Greek mythology. Fundamentally,
it is fashionably known as the cradle of mankind.

From ancient times this beloved continent has a record of greatly impressive tales from the visit of Queen of Sheba to Jerusalem, the beauty of majestic
pyramids in Egypt, the famous first written language in the world
hieroglyphics; and the extraordinary River Nile is among the splendid
and wonders of antiquity of Africa and the world.

Notwithstanding the colonialism of Africa by the European countries, this essentially made the indigenous people of Africa to wake up and realize to come
together and unite. In fact largely, the white intruders during colonialism
were soberly creating unpleasant situation in Africa. From all
corners of Africa white imperialists were chaotic and caused
mayhem and with their advanced weapons they were able to overwhelm
and subjugate Africans under their authority.

One should remember that before the arrival of whites in Africa the Africans were
comprehensively aware about their basic needs as human beings. During
the launching of Organisations of African Unity the forerunner of
African Union in 1963 in Addis Ababa on the 25 of May Emperor Hail
Selassie said: “We seek, at this meeting, to determine whether we are
going and to chart the course of our destiny. It is no less important
that we know whence we came. An awareness of our past is essential to
the establishment of our personality and our identity as Africans.
This world was not created piecemeal. Africa was born no later and no
earlier than any other geographical area on this globe. Africans, no
more and no less than other men, possess all human attributes, talents
and deficiencies, virtues and faults. Thousands of years ago,
civilizations flourished in Africa which suffers not at all by
comparison with those of other continents. In those centuries,
Africans were politically free and economically independent. Their
social patterns were their own and their cultures truly indigenous.
The obscurity which enshrouds the centuries which elapsed between
those earliest days and the rediscovery of Africa are being gradually
dispersed. What is certain is that during those long years Africans
were born, lived and died. Men on other parts of this Earth occupied
themselves with their own concerns and, in their conceit, proclaimed
that the world began and ended at their horizons. All unknown to them,
Africa developed in its own pattern, growing in its own life and, in
the nineteenth century, finally re-emerged into the world's
consciousness.”

Colonialism ultimately propelled Africans to unite in 1963. Moreover for the first time in history after the emergence of great modern African thinkers such as Edward Wilmot Blyden, Henry Sylvester William, Marcus Garvey and W.E.B Dubois asserted that unity of the Africans is only the best solution for their plight of colonialism.
Necessarily their thinking was realized and it remains a burnished, living dream,
Now we expect our current leaders to advance their vision.

This noble Pan African Fathers were utterly conscious about the social life of the Africans and they were familiar with the diverse societies of Africa. It is a well known fact that when our Fathers gathered in Addis Ababa in Ethiopia to form a unitary body of Africa they were diverse and even today that diversity is yet persisting. Africa has different cultures, different religions and various languages. Like Emperor Hail Selassie said: ‘’their social patterns were their own and their cultures truly indigenous.

Therefore we are now looking to our current African leaders to lead us
in a way that is excellent and promising. As the former president of
South Africa Thabo Mbeki in 2003 said ‘’We suffer hardships in our
Continent, most notably, poverty and conflict. We need to address
these challenges with dedication and commitment, and recognise that
these hardships extend beyond the original, political mandate of the
OAU. For this reason we have transformed the Organization of African
Unity into the African Union in order to deal with the socio-economic
development of the continent in tandem with the need to build
political stability.” Imperatively enough is conspicuous from what
Thabo Mbeki has said that Africa is faced with serious challenges that
need the AU to address.

It is obvious that African Union recently has become fragile as the
results of its unwillingness to be decisive to resolve continental
crisis. Apparently in the highly contested position of the
chairperson of the commission of AU where Sir Jean Ping won with a
slight margin against Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma one could witness that
AU is in dilemma. Many reporters gave information about the two
candidates and it was reported that that Sir Jean Ping and other
Francophone countries were concerned about the link with France. If
then is correct that Sir Ping has the interests of France than that of
Africa our continent is in deep crisis. AU was entrenched under
difficult circumstances when terror and suppression was hindrance and
threat for the subsistence of the Africans. Africans must watch with
the careful understanding the convoluted business of AU, as now we saw another
struggle in African continent. It has become complicated for Africa to
solve its problems. Leaders of Africa are often subjected to the Hague
international criminal court. Africa is suffering from within, as in
the last year’s spring uprising in Maghreb which began in Tunisia, Egypt
and culminated in Libya. In the case of Libya we saw how South Africa
essentially concurred with United Nation Security Council under the UN resolution 73
which culminated in the assassination of the Libyan Brother leader
Muammar Gaddafi. I agree with Thabo Mbeki in his recent Stellenbosch speech when he referred to the situation in Libya and Iraq as false information fabricated by the west.

For AU to achieve its mission and objective in the midst of economic
crisis of euro zone it needs not to be a press statement body that only
condemns any action that is against the rule of law of the Union.
Specifically, it must increase its peace keeping mission and
consolidate its security council and concurrently act decisively
against those who contravene its rules. Africa now is faced with huge
societal problems such as xenophobia, terrorism and undemocratic
states. Surprisingly one read in a Sunday paper (authored by Maite Nkoana-Mashabana) that the UN must take the AU serious, in the same letter, she alluded
how resolution 73 was ill transcribed by the North Atlantic Treaty. AU
must not expect the west to act on their behalf as it happened in
Libya; Africans should not seek any favour from someone it must take
charge of its own continental affairs.

It is indeed disturbing to hear, read and learn about the heinous atrocities
committed by the Africans against Africans. It can’t be that at this
current time when the world is advancing in technology and other
marvels of our electronic world that Africans resort to war against
themselves. Imagine a child who is born and grows up in Africa today
- will he ever wish to stay in Africa? African Union needs to be a strong
body that is determined to advance Africa’s cause in the family of the
nations. We should be ashamed of ourselves if we will allow our
conscience to mislead us to be the monsters against Africa.

Fundamentally, ordinary people of Africa should be informed about the
progress of African Union, they need to be involved in reshaping Africa
that must be great among the family of sundry nations. When Alshabab of
Somalia attacked innocent people in Uganda who were watching World
Cup soccer tournament in South African 2010. The African Union acted
immediately and AU troops were sent to Somalia. Such was a great move
but now it seems AU is losing the focus, and unnecessary things that
jeopardize the unity of Africa are happening and no action is
taken.

For example, we should blatantly denounce what is happening in Nigeria
today, Boko Haram is attacking Christian churches for nothing, unleashing horror and unbridled violence. The struggle to free Africa from colonial bondage was both fought by the Christian and Muslim, then why are we undermining what our Fathers fought for? We must always learn to defend and preserve the legacy of the African Union as Africans and know how to remember people such as Kwame Nkrumah, Gamel Abdel Nasser, Haille Selassie, Mmandi Azikiwe, Sekou Toure, Modibo Keita, Kenneth Kaunda, Mwalimu Julius Nyerere, Augostino Neto, Samora Machel, Amilcar Cabral, Albert Luthuli, Oliver Tambo, Walter Sisulu, Nelson Mandela and many others.

* Mr Soqaga is an eminent essayist, critic and writer based in Bloemfontein

PULE LECHESA'S NEW BOOK!

2012-01-21T02:57:00.001-08:00

(Above) Copy of Pule Lechesa's latest book

Pule Lechesa, the renowned Free State literary critic and essayist - whose work is well known internationally - will soon be launching his new book. As can be expected, the work is a Cornucopia and celebration of Free State Black Writing; a breath-taking journey straddling the literary work of major Free State writers over the years. This is a work not to be missed! No true afficionado of literature can afford not to have a copy... watch this space for more details!

TEBOGO AND THE BACCHAE

2012-01-16T22:15:00.000-08:00

...another unusual title

Book: Tebogo and the Bacchae
Author: Omoseye Bolaji
Publisher: Eselby Jnr Publications
Book lay-out (including cover) by Godmore Jnr (Godfrey) Mofokeng
ISBN: 978 - 0 - 620 - 52543 - 5

An argument can be made that the last four adventures of Tebogo (all written within the last four years or so) have been characterised by a simpler language, whilst the titles have become more difficult or unusual.

This started with Tebogo and the Haka (2008). Not only Rugby lovers relished this work, which many believe is the most accomplished volume of the Tebogo Mokoena Mystery series. But the title endeared the book to many others.

Tebogo and the epithalamion (2009) followed, and even fewer people could state with confidence what the “epithalamion” meant, or what it was all about. The story was weaved around the disappearance of a young lady, and was not at all gory.

The unusual titles seemed to reach a peak with Tebogo and the pantophagist (2010)... a really unusual title. Here inter alia, we are subtly exhorted to remember, and be grateful to the great selfless scientists who over the centuries, and decades contributed little by little to the marvels of our modern world - which we now all take for granted.

For followers of the Tebogo Mystery series, many wondered whether the author would again revel in another unusual title in the next adventure; if there was another adventure after Tebogo and the pantophagist!

Yet that is exactly what Bolaji has done in this new adventure, Tebogo and the Bacchae (2012) . Yet integrating such titles into the twists and turns of these works at grassroots level seems quite simple, almost effortless for the author.

This time around “Biggie” (remember him from Tebogo and the epithalamion?) is the one who explains what the Bacchae is all about in simplistic fashion:

Biggie began to explain: “The Bacchae is an old Greek (Athenian) tragedy, famously written by Euripides. It is about King Pentheus of Thebes and his mother. They were ruthlessly punished by Dionysus - a god - for refusing to worship him.

“Pentheus died a terrible death. Earlier, he foolishly locked Dionysus up - who escaped rather easily since he was a deity! Pentheus, dressed like a woman, found himself atop a tree. The Bacchants, women, grabbed unfortunate Pentheus and ripped him apart piece by piece!...

“And there is the horrific image of Pentheus’ own mother, Agave ripping off her own son’s head unknowingly, and initially proud of what she’s done....
(From the Chapter “Biggie” in Tebogo and the Bacchae, 2012)

Really, this is a good read, never mind the title!

- Courtesy Phoenix Literary Club

TRIBALISM - AFRICA'S CURSE

2012-01-10T06:51:00.000-08:00

By Charles Matorera (above)

It was late around eleven at night, and I was coming from the Corner Studio where I was busy trying to record my debut musical album.

I arrived at the taxi rank of Luveve and Gwabalanda. There was only one taxi loading, probably the last one. Like in Johannesburg, taxis in Bulawayo fill up from the back seat. It was an eighteen-seater Toyota Hiace because it sat four people in every row and two front passengers. The conductor who sat anywhere behind the front passenger seat was the nineteenth passenger, as it were.

The back seat was full, so was the second. I was the first to sit on the third seat from the back, which was also the third from the front seat.

I went and sat next to the far right window opposite the combi’s sliding door. Soon after I took my seat, in came two guys of about my age; mid twenties, both of them tall and slim with dreadlocks. They looked like brothers.

Something about them drew my attention. Was it their similarity in appearance? No, I quickly figured out that it was the odd smell of tobacco, they were smoking! I hate smoke as much as a Muslim is reputed to hate pork. I was angry, how could these guys come smoking in a confined place like a combi? I knew if I was in Harare I could have raised hell, but here I was in a new town where a strange language was spoken so I kept my cool and tried to inform them politely. I tried to muster my best Ndebele as I had learnt on the national radio. I said to the guy next to me who was now pulling the cigarette “Eh mfowethu phela mina angizwani nogwayi” (My brother, I do not go along with smoke).

He quickly saw that I was a Shona, from such a little statement. I could see by the way his eyes brightened; then he blew all the smoke from his lungs to my face saying: “Eh mkoma seyi phelile phela!” using the Shona word for big brother mockingly (It’s almost finished); showing me the cigarette which was only half finished.

With the cloud of smoke on my face I realized that he would blow smoke on my face until he finished it. I moved my right hand fast and pulled out the cigarette from his fingers and threw it out of the window very fast. He shouted angrily, informing his friend who was sitting next to him on the other side.

All this time, people were filing in and in no time the taxi was full and moving. We passed Jairos Jiri Centre of the Disabled whilst the two guys were trying to beating me and I was hitting the guy next to me with my left elbow. You know how crammed the full taxis of Africa are. There was not much space to fight anyone, but we were noisily pushing and pulling each other. A guy further from me was able to tower over his friend and beat me with sharp short claps on my forehead, swearing "You Shonas were killing us in the Gukurahundi war!" He was talking about a war which took place when I was six years old.

The taxi driver suddenly stopped the car and shouted: “Ngubani uba ngumsindo?” (Who is making noise?).

The guys were quick as I was very slow to respond because I had to translate the message and then translate the answer before I answered.

Those other guys quickly said: “Ngulo umkhoba lo o’lahlile ugwayi bethu!" (It’s this possessed guy who throw away our cigarette) The other one shouted: "A full packet of ten cigarettes!" Before I even responded the driver shouted: “He must get out now!”
The conductor quickly opened the sliding door, vacating his sitting possession to give room to my exit. Those two guys were also supposed to get out, opening passage for my exit.

My mind was pondering my situation because here we were in an open space near a railway flyover between Nguboyenja and mMpopoma suburbs. The magnificent Bouborfields stadium looming to our North. The previous day, when my cousin Madlamini took me for an orientation journey she had specifically pointed out this open space as one of the very dangerous robbery spots, with some victims being found stabbed to death in the morning.

I was very weak, powerless and gripped with self-blame. I stood up slowly. Some people pushed me from behind, shouting: “It’s very late, we want to go and rest; get out!” But a woman sitting on the far right shouted in deep Ndebele: "How can you leave this guy here? He was fighting for the health of all of us!" Unfortunately she was the only person on my side, and being a woman none could listen to her.

The driver who was very big in structure and dark in complexion stared at me with a steady gaze; then I detected a tremor on his eyes. I looked at myself and realized that I was wearing a police T-shirt inside my bomber jacket. The badge of Zimbabwe Republic – Police (ZRP) was clearly emblazoned on my chest. I had forgotten that in the afternoon I had visited my old school mate who was now a police officer residing at Rose Camp, in downtown Bulawayo. He liked my blue and white rugby jersey which I brought from South Africa. He liked it because the Blue Bulls colours were the same as Zimbabwe’s Dynamos Football club, so we had exchanged and he gave me this marathon T-shirt of the police which bore regional marks of Matebeland North.

I quickly realised that I was supposed to be a police officer right now or face the merciless knife-wielding robbers out there. I shouted in a deep terrifying Shona voice: “Hoo nhai! This is what you are doing here in Bulawayo, tribalism? Now you are going to face hell. Driver, turn the vehicle back to the Charge Office." I commanded. “No Shefu, isu tinoshanda zvakanaka namapolisa!” (We have a good working relationship with the police) said the driver. I was very much aware that the situation in Zimbabwe had deteriorated to the extent that it could even be dubbed a police state.

He shouted for the conductor to jump inside and in milliseconds the taxi was back on the road, but proceeding towards Luveve. “I was meaning those tsotsies that they must get out. In this taxi no police officer pays even if he is not in uniform”! The driver continued in accented Shona. He ordered his conductor to give me back my taxi fare.

Then someone from behind grabbed my shoulder and said: “Thank you guys, if it wasn’t for you Shona Police Officers we could all be dead here in Bulawayo. There is too much tribalism.” Then there were many voices agreeing also in Shona. "So where do you come from?" I asked him. "Masvingo sir, Chief Gutu area." he answered jovially. Then the other from the backseat shouted “I come from Rusape !” And there were others shouting Shona places: “MtDarwin, Mtoko, Guruve”

I was now angry. I asked loudly - for the whole combi to hear, saying: “Shonas, how many are you?” After a careful count, eleven were Shonas which means they were the majority even here. I said: "Now some of you back there, you were pushing me to get out. You are the majority here but you never tried to help me. Why can’t you stand up for what is right? You know that smoking in public, mostly in a public transport is not only a crime but a health hazard but you chose to be quiet and carry the story to other Shonas telling of how tribalism is still rife here in Bulawayo; but you have the power to help end it but you do not employ it. You are a disgrace to this country!"

I looked out of the window and realised that I had let my anger carry me again. The taxi was now passing a school in Lobengela West which was my geographical landmark. I told the driver to stop, he tried to insist that he would leave me at the door but I refused. Maybe if I was a real police officer I could have agreed. I thanked the Ndebele lady who tried to help me and went out of the combi planning to pack my bags and leave for Harare the following morning.

Epilogue

The following morning I sat with my aunt MaMoyo in her dining room. After listening to my story, she said: "Do you remember the old African proverb 'travelling is seeing'?" I nodded, "My nephew you will only know about other people when you go to their places. Ask yourself how many Ndebeles are treated like that in Shona speaking areas, or how many ugly names are given to people from Malawi in Harare? Think of the Vendas in Sotho areas, Kalangas in Tonga areas and so forth. The only people who are safe from tribal remarks are those who grow up in the same land where they were born and die there for they will be ignorant to other languages and cultures and they are usually the perpetrators of xenophobic crimes," I sat there in the old house pondering her powerful words. I decided against leaving Bulawayo; maybe I had to learn more about the local ways and customs. I watched my aunt's grandchildren who were preparing to go to school. They knew no other language other than Ndebele, no other city other than Bulawayo, I thought of the world waiting for them…

* Charles Matorera is a Free State based Zimbabwean writer

RITA CHIHAWA'S SWEET TROLLEY OF POETRY

2011-12-19T04:02:00.000-08:00

By Dineo Mokgosi

(Above) Poet "Jah Rose" in full flow!

“A platform for poets to share their literary art with the rest of the public” This is how Rita Chihawa described the “Sound of poetry”, an event that took place on Thursday, December 15 at the Rose Hall in the Bram Fisher Building in Bloemfontein city.

Seasoned poets who performed at the event included Phillipa Yaa De Villiers, performer, teacher and writer for stage and television; who was supported by Free State greats such as Jah Rose, Hector Kunene and Dr Cool. Other aspiring poets who performed were Azanian Kid and Alme Swarts. There was also an open mike session where poets from the floor shared their poetry with the audience.

The event was the brainchild of Soweto-born poet, Rita Chihawa, 24, through a company called Arts Amuse founded in 2009 together with Khonzeka Tyindyi.
“This was the first time we would be hosting the ‘Sound of poetry’, and we are planning to make it an annual event that will be taken to major cities across the Free State” said Rita Chihawa, poet and organiser.

Chihawa is a rather seasoned poet herself despite her young age. She has been doing poetry since the age of 13. She has performed at the Grahamstown Arts Festival. “It has been a long and fulfilling journey in the arts industry,” she said.

Chihawa’s favourite poem is “They went home” by veteran author and poet, Maya Angelou; and another favourite written by her is a new poem called “Mother and sister”

“I look up to a lot of poets, depending on a variety of aspects such as writing and performing. On writing I like Ntate Don Mattera and Ntate Vonani Bila. On the performance side I look up to people like Masoja Msiza, Napo Masheane, Lebo Mashile and Mphutlane wa Bofelo,” said Chihawa.

Her love of poetry was stoked by reading other people’s material. “I love reading. I read a lot of poems by writers like Mattera, Professor Kgositsile, Jessica Mbangeni and Chris Mann,” she explained.

Chihawa said that the poetry industry in other parts of the country is well developed in comparison to the Free State, “as more needs to be done to promote literary arts to the public,”

“We need to educate our people about this type of events so that they can try them out and also create more platforms for poets and storytellers to showcase their crafts to the public,” Rita Chihawa vouchsafed.

'SOUND OF POETRY' reverberates in Bloem!

2011-12-10T02:17:00.000-08:00

Excitement is mounting in Mangaung as the countdown to the "Sound of Poetry" festival orchestrated by Arts Amuse begins. Literary pundits have also been praising Mme Rita Chihawa the brain behind the great festival. Meanwhile the billed poets are ready to strut their stuff...

Poets' Profiles

1. Alme Swart: Has been involved in several productions that toured to Grahamstown National Arts Festival in 2009 and 2010. "I was involved with MedFM radio station in 2009 where I wrote ghost stories for their midnight show and also did a little bit of presenting. I have published in two different poetry books called 'Masks' and 'Boksemdais'"

2. Azanian Kid - Morena Berries, a well known young actor and bard epitomises the quintessence of an artist - he has also published his lyrical compositions in local papers. An international newspaper once referred to him as a "maverick"!

3. Seiso Mpete

4. Hector Kunene: Has a book called Through the Tunnel which became a success, the book received good reviews. Later in 2010 he published his second book, a literary study of Chief Bolaji. He is an award winner; the Free State writer of the year 2010 which opened doors and received great publicity. He has performed at Vuka Festival and Macufe respectively 2010 and 2011. He also features in Free State News as a columnist and has worked at Motheo FM as a motivational speaker

5. Jah Rose: "JahRose” Jafta, a revered poetess known for her poetry anthology called, Rooted from the heart and she is one of the Facilitators and Founders of the FREE STATE TLOUHADI ART PROJECT that has been touring around the Free State.

6. Phillippa Yaa De Villers: Phillippa Yaa de Villiers-Venter is an award-winning South African writer, performer, and poet living in Johannesburg. She studied journalism in South Africa and theater in Paris and then returned to academia in the late 1990s, consolidating her passions for writing and performance with a degree in dramatic arts. She writes for a television series in South Africa and has performed in numerous festivals around the world.

KEY FREE STATE WRITERS

2011-11-09T22:02:00.000-08:00

(Above) Kgang Abel Motheane, Teboho Masakala, Jah Rose, Hector Kunene, Flaxman Qoopane...

2011 LITERARY TRENDS: A Review

2011-11-09T01:30:00.000-08:00

By Paul Lothane

Is it too early to reflect on how literature fared in the FS this year (2011)? Probably not. After all, those of us who like to claim we love the art of creative writing and all that goes with it can scent the trends quite distinctly.

And one thing is clear: 2011 can hardly hold a candle to 2010 (last year) which was an exciting year in the annals of the so-called renaissance of Black Writing in the Free State. Everything seemed to come together in 2010 – exciting new writers publishing their books, literary-critical articles of the highest order, reviews unlimited.

How many times do we have to say it that writers must ensure that their books are read by the right people, respected reviewers critics, even scholars if possible? In this way they (writers) are assured of some sort of immortality with their books being analysed, talked about, reviewed. As history has shown, those who do not go through this process are either wasting their time, writing only for themselves, or will never really be acknowledged as writers.

The same 2010 we saw two, three wonderful examples of this in the FS. Hector Kunene and Nthabiseng JahRose Jafta attained the type of literary fame most new writers can ever dream about. Their books were properly analysed and discussed in national publications, and on the internet for the whole world. A researcher or any interested reader anywhere in the world, in any country, can check their progress on the internet now, and be impressed.

That is what literature is all about, focusing on the books, ideas, criticism, comments etc. To a certain extent the same was also true for NMM Duman whose apparently reclusive nature has not stopped the world from appreciating her literary genius. Teboho Masakala also hit the scene with his first book in 2010 (short stories)

So, what about the pick of the books published in 2011? One can hardly do any better than first appreciate O Bolaji's Miscellaneous Writings. Whether his career as a writer of fiction is over or not, his book Miscellaneous Writings oozes quality with excellent short essays and stories. Not only does Bolaji write about international and African writers, he does a great service nearer home here by also focusing on the literary work of the likes of Sheila Khala, NMM Duman and Teboho Masakala

Teboho Masakala second book, Through it all also came out this year. A novella, the author has been clever enough from a very young age to realise the importance of reviewers and critics. Hence his book has received appreciable attention by some literary experts. Sechaba Marumo also published a motivational book.

After an absence of some years Thabo Mafike must also be commended for publishing two new books late this year, I have just learnt. It is a bit too early to comment on his works, as they are hardly in the market…the danger, as one has pointed out earlier is the fact that so many of these publications are never really reviewed or analysed by those who know their onions.

The most disappointing aspect of 2011 was the failure of the much advertised book on Flaxman Qoopane, supposed to be written by Hector Kunene, to come out. Thus far, no apology or explanation has been offered to the literary world to explain such a farce and embarrassment. Writers, even those from F.S must remember that the literary world is a very serious, responsible one where reputations can be made and tarnished quite easily. There are many scrupulous and focused people out there who frown on what the world would perceive as dishonesty or a lack of purpose.

One or two other positive items that ensured that 2011 will at least get a pass mark (apart from the few book publications). The celebrated international scholar and researcher, Achal Prabhala visited the Free State this year and his write-up on literary developments has now been published in the Chimurenga journal, and widely on the internet. A controversial piece, as one would expect from any genuine scholar, perhaps the main defect of it was the failure of Mr Prabhala to mention more than just a very few key FS writers.

Happily enough the other major general write-up of the year, “A harvest of Free State poetry” does not suffer from this defect. Written by O Bolaji, the article is a breathtaking, authoritative manner traces the genesis of poetry writing and publication at grassroots level in the FS, and mentions over 20 of such outstanding writers! It is no surprise that the article is now being reproduced on many international websites, and is being used for research and scholarly purposes around the world.

Let me end here by expressing the hope that the year 2012 will at least sustain the progress being made in the FS literary field, with an emphasis on quality books.

MY PEN!

2011-11-07T04:24:00.000-08:00

By TIISETSO THIBA (Above)

I have spent lots of time with burden in my mind
I have lost so many times in the past
Words of riot seek space to escaped my oblongata
Blow of gusto kept me distance from the paper
Because I’ve lost my pen
Pen of mine was lost
I was envy to ink the paper with the pen
To make changes in the peoples life’s
Make change of the deleterious feeling, change of acuity, change of igloo to warm arms, change of dryness mind to wet mind
Change of aching to delight and change of infidelity to loyalty only with my pen
Love of literature instigate me to seek for my pen
My life is accomplished with the ink in the scraggy plastic and with the born of the wood ‘paper
I’m engaged to books and soon I’m going to walk down the aisle with nobody seems around
And only I mean only with the sustenance and advice of my tutors to keep me on going and going like jonny walker
With my pen and my paper in my hands I can change and save plenty from the demise course
I can spare your tears and combat them from flowing like dirty river water with no direction
Though you have wounds bleeding bloods of your lost love ones
With my pen I can brought adore in your temple to forgive and love your haters
I can have it all but without jotting down revolution words I’m like dead man breathing
My pen is like water to defy my thirsty, food to full my soul, love to ventilate glee
After found my pen I will exhale puff of joy and kick the air like a healthy toddler
Only after i found my pen

'LITERARY INTERVIEW OF THE YEAR'

2011-11-05T02:09:00.001-07:00

(Above) Hector Kunene (left) and O Bolaji

The Phoenix Literary Club (Eastern Free State) has announced that "the literary interview of the year is the highly illuminating one between author Hector Kunene, and versatile writer O Bolaji". Also in book form, check out details of the interview in the link below:

http://kaganof.com/kagablog/2011/03/14/the-road-i-have-traversed%E2%80%A6%E2%80%9D-special-interview-with-omoseye-bolaji-by-hector-kunene/

CONFUSION IN DEON SIMPHIWE SKADE'S DEBUT WORK

2011-10-09T03:45:00.000-07:00

By Pule Lechesa

“A special effort is needed to perceive the different social and
religious organisation of these people...the scene setting is heavy
going...I can only say that I welcomed a Bewitched Crossroad on my
desk with expectations of new discovery and insight, but closed it
with a sense of baffled frustration.”

This was critic Barry Ronge's reaction to Bessie Head's last book, but the comments above apply to some extent to Deon Skade’s first book, A Series of Undesirable Events. There is a distinct sense of chaos and confusion.

This has nothing to do with the excellent writing skills of the author - the problem is the profusion of first person narrators in the work. How many such narrators is the reader supposed to identify with?

The overall effect comes close to being a disaster for most readers as the author, who is the only one familiar with his disparate characters, assumes that this would also work for the mainstream reader. It does not.

Look at the dramatic story for example where we learn that an incensed Kgotso has killed his woman, and her alleged lover. It is a fair bet to say that there is raising of eyebrows, confusion, even shock, at the revelation of the first person narrator here. Not our Moshe. Or is it? With some effort we find out, but it is not so easy.

Again, in the short story, Class Act it would be no surprise if the reader starts questioning his or her own sanity! The juxtaposition of two first person narrators, one female, one male, at the same time in the same story would be regarded by many as an imposition, despite the author's impressive skill.

Yet what many would dub a literary glitch could have been nipped in the bud, or alleviated, if the author had adopted a trick used in some of the old English classics - including a note along these lines at the beginning of each story: "Narrative by so and so (named),"Narrative resumed by so and so...". Too simplistic?

Literary styles of course vary, or evolve as time goes on. Writers like D.H Lawrence, even Africa’s Wole Soyinka were often dubbed unreadable, but now even more appreciated. Perhaps Deon’s experimentations with literary styles shows he's ahead of his time? Perhaps the average reader is too naive?

Admittedly, a second reading of A series of undesirable events, makes the author's achievement more rewarding. But how many bemused readers will go on to read it twice at a go?

DEON SIMPHIWE-SKADE's BOOK IS OUT!!

2011-10-01T01:42:00.000-07:00

To a large extent, Deon Simphiwe-Skade, the Cape Town based sublime arts and culture activist, is a "Free Stater". This blog is claiming him as one of ours, anyway! Deon's book, "A series of undesirable events", has just been published. Here are some glimpses into the debut work of the wordsmith

About the book

Set in Cape Town, A Series of Undesirable Events weaves together six stories of close friends, who each deals with an unfortunate event.The author presents what may have been one story in fragments that
each tackles social challenges such as infidelity, violence, HIV/AIDS and sexuality. There’s also a strong focus on the complexities of dreams and aspirations; on just how insincere some dreams and aspirations tend to be. Moshe, the protagonist in at least three stories, gives us glimpses of the disadvantages experienced by an
individual who does not intimately know his dreams. The result of such negligence ultimately breeds an internal conflict that only Moshe can address. Like facial make-up that gets applied and removed later, this book reflects application of “make-up” on many levels of the society including attitudes. But the truth always comes out in the end.
(from the blurb)

A HARVEST OF FREE STATE POETRY

2011-09-12T07:50:00.000-07:00

Poetry at the grassroots level in the Free State has now assumed an international recognition and significance. Over the years Black writers from the Province have contributed prodigiously to poetry, and published many books celebrating poetry. This piece attempts to trace the genesis of this phenomenon.

The late Gilbert Modise was already making a name for himself as a polished poet and versifier by the time he departed this world prematurely (2001). His debut book, Our Land (a play) had undertones of poetry; and this culminated in what many regard as his magnum opus, An Eyesore, a powerful work packed with haunting poetry.

Also already celebrated – like Gilbert Modise – at the beginning of the New Millennium was Flaxman Qoopane who had spent many years living abroad in exile; he already had his poems published around the world in newspapers, magazines and journals. Back in the Free State, he graced many occasions with élan, reciting his poetry with gusto. He published books of poems like A poet abroad, and Mangaung Poet.

Lebohang Thaisi staked his claim as a young versifier of note in 2000 when he published A Voice from Mangaung, a collection of his poetry. Reviewers and critics were fascinated with the simplicity and earnestness of the poems. Now many years later, Thaisi is a respected literary commentator and pundit.

It was the turn of Teboho Mohanoe to publish his work, Enter the night (2001) which contained a miscellany of his distinctive poetry. His talent was undeniable, and a lot more was expected from him. Mohanoe recently announced that some ten years after his first book, he is set to publish a sequel.

By 2001, many were taking note as regards the literary, especially poetical trends in the Province. This was the year the highly talented Mangaung poet, Job Mzamo launched his book, Pride of My heart. The book, a labour of love for the author’s loved ones, contained many dazzling poems with excellent rhymes. The work cemented the reputation of Mzamo as one of the country’s skilful Black poets.

The formal book launch of Mazamo’s book was also notable for the fact that members of the assorted media were present, including etv (Television) the burgeoning TV station which filmed the occasion for posterity. Also present were distinguished personnel from the Library Services who basked in the literary ambience of the occasion
By this time, the Library Services were buying the books produced by the poets from the grassroots of the Free State, with assiduity.

Within a few years, thousands of such books were bought as more and more authors and their works were churned out. It is no surprise that literary pundits now refer to the period as “the golden era of Free State Black writing”

In 2003 Saint George Vis (now an academic) emerged as another promising bard, writing prolifically and pungently. His work of poetry, first things first was published in the same year (2003) and contained interesting, rhythmical poetry. The book soon also found itself in the diverse libraries. Also, tertiary institutions including the “local” University of the Free State began purchasing these pertinent books.

Tanki Phafoli published his book of poems titled: Take a look inside in 2004. His emergence garnered a lot of attention because he was only 19 when he published his debut work. He was still little more than a school student at the time, and some immaturity and naivety showed in his work. Nevertheless his book also did moderately well.

By this time (around 2004) other poets who were bestriding the scene and making their mark included Thabo Mafike and Pule Lechesa. Mafike, from Bultfontein by this time had already published at least three books including his celebrated Tjhe bo Bophelo. His book of poems Love, also entered the market and was a moderate success. Mafike went on to become a small publisher and churned out other books.

Pule Lechesa made his mark within a short period of time not only as a poet, but as a prolific publisher of the works of other writers from the Free State. His publishing efforts garnered him laurels and awards as he published the likes of George Rampai, Tiisetso Makhele, Leseli Mokhele, Pulane Moilao and Leboela Motopi. (most of them poets) Lechesa’s publishing firm – now defunct – was called Phoenix Press.

Tiisetso Makhele who was to further cement his reputation by becoming a columnist in a popular publication, had his work of poetry, Under the palm tree published in 2006. Reviewers went into raptures over the quality of the poems in the book – almost forgetting that Makhele had been writing poems from his teen-age years, even winning a CNN award when he was only 18 years old!

Pulane Moilao had a formidable pedigree by the time she published her first work of poems in 2006 (She was only 21 years old at the time). Pulane is the granddaughter of the highly revered and prolific Sesotho writer, Dr JJ Moiloa. Pulane’s father is also a writer of books! Hence her book, Threesome was warmly welcomed by the literary fraternity.

To the delight of literary pundits, Pulane’s work came across as qualitative and intelligent in its own right. Her book, Threesome was well received. Her variety of topics, breadth and vision impressed the literati who continue to praise her to high heavens. Pulane also recently announced that she will soon be publishing her second book of poetry.

Back to Pule Lechesa who is also a poet in his own right. He fell in love with the world of writing from a very young age, and loved poetry in particular. His first published book, The legacy we leave behind (2004) was a run-away success, reviewed around the world successfully. As a literary critic and activist, he ensured even more national and international focus on Free State Black writing.

Sipho Mnyakeni, a powerful motivator and pastor, also made his mark with his brilliant poetry. Indeed his book, The winning Combination (2005) contains a panorama of highly polished poems. Sipho is also famed for reciting his poetry with illustrious national and international bards.

“Skietreker” (Richard Segopolo) also entered the public consciousness as a poet, preferring to write his first collection of poetry in Afrikaans. The book, titled Apartheid ek gaan jou boks stoked some controversy, but the poet stuck to his guns reiterating that he could write his book in any language he wanted.

The media were also enamoured with Kgang Abel Motheane when he burst onto the literary scene in 2005. This was mainly because he was already 64 years old by the time he got published. He published his book of poems, titled Nowadays poetry in 2005. He has since added many other poetic works in the Sesotho language.

Meanwhile Raselebeli “magic” Khotsemg had already become a household name in the Province thanks to his powerful public performances of his poetry at various events. In 2010 he published his first book, Hold Back your Tears.

Young ladies like Charmaine Kolwane, Neo Mvubu, Rita Chirhawa and Nthabiseng “Jah Rose” Jafta have also emerged in recent times, staking their claims as powerful black poets from the Free State. They have all published intermittently in publications and journals; yet Jafta’s book, titled Rooted from the Heart was a shining success.

Jafta “Jah Rose” over the years had already displayed her great love for poetry, reading the same at sundry occasions, and even travelling overseas to showcase her poetry. In 2010 she published her first book, Rooted from the Heart. The quality book has been well reviewed and somewhat celebrated.

Perhaps the most celebrated of all these poets is Hector S Kunene who emerged in early 2010. A flamboyant, polished highly talented poet, his first book came out in 2010 (Through the Tunnel) and became a run-away success, reviewed even in the prestigious Guardian UK (United Kingdom)

The well known literary critic, Raphael Mokoena, who has published many sparkling articles on Free State poetry and writing worldwide said: “It’s absolutely stupendous the manner Free State Black Writing has grown by leaps and bounds over the years. It is uncanny. Whenever I travel the world, pundits often ask me how this metamorphosis took place,”

Deon Simphiwe, the Cape Town based critic and writer added: “I love the input of Free State writers and their work. The studies done on their work are so tantalising to sift through. It is no surprise that even international literary protagonists are interested in Black Writing in the Free State. I recall that recently the celebrated Achal Prabhala (an Indian scholar) visited the Free State to see the local writing for himself,”

A spokesperson for the Free State Library Services says: “We have been happy to support writing from the grassroots of the Free State over the years. We are happy thousands of books written and published by such writers are in our stock, available in libraries all over the Province. The writers must continue the great job, and trends,”.
* By Omoseye Bolaji, originally published in Public Eye. Reproduced by kind permission of the publishers

BOLAJI'S 30th BOOK!

2011-07-12T23:40:00.000-07:00

By Khahliso Khama

Omoseye Bolaji, the Free State based author of international repute,
has published his latest book, titled Miscellaneous Writings.

Miscellaneous Writings (2011) is his latest book, the 30th of the
author. Already the book is making a hit nationally and beyond. Bolaji
told Mangaung Issue: “Actually I did not know it was my 30th book,
until the literary pundits pointed this out. It does not really matter
anyway. I have always maintained that quality is more important than
quantity. There’s no point churning out loads of drivel,”

Bolaji, who started writing creatively as a youngster, explained
further: “The classical example is of course Emily Bronte who
published only one novel, one book – Wuthering Heights which is an all
time classic. I suppose Africa’s Tsitsi Dangarembga has made her mark
too with her Nervous Conditions. It is more important for one’s books
to be recognized and respected among experts, and generally,”

Bolaji certainly has no problem in this wise. Most of his books,
particular the fiction, are celebrated worldwide, with countless
essays, critiques in different languages dissecting his literary work.
His literary creation, detective Tebogo Mokoena is globally famous.
Additionally, many books have been published appreciating Omoseye
Bolaji the writer himself.

His latest book, Miscellaneous Writings, as the name implies, contains
a selection of many of his diverse writings for international
magazines and journals. The topics dealt with in the new work range
from African and international literature, to sports and music.

Pule Lechesa, the well known literary critic, who wrote the
introduction to Bolaji’s latest book, told Mangaung Issue: “Omoseye
remains a key figure in the quintessential world of letters, and
inspirational creativity. He not only continues to galvanize
literature in general, but maintains his impressive fecundity,”
* Reproduced by kind permission of Mangaung Issue. First published on July 13 2011

MATHENE MAHANKE'S MAJOR WORK

2011-07-10T03:37:00.000-07:00

"SESOTHO NOVEL DEDICATED TO TEACHERS"

By Flaxman Qoopane

Mathene Mahanke, former lecturer at the university has published his first Sesotho novel, Tutudu Ha E Patwe (You can’t bring a good man down) that pays tribute to the real teacher.

Mahanke explained: “NKAHEMA Publishing & Consulting cc in Bloemfontein: recently published my novel in Sesotho. I am excited about giving birth to my first novel, I am motivated to work hard and publish another book in future. The novel is about a teacher who does everything right, to transform a dysfunctional school. He is trying to bring change at the school, there is a resistance mainly from other teachers, and they influence the community against him.

“He is even trapped by the use of a young woman (girl) as to make him guilty of statutory rape. He sees through the trap and beat them. He ultimately succeeds to have everybody behind him”.

According to Mathene, he published a novel that portrays a teacher in a dignified light, in the hope of restoring dignity to the profession.

In 1994, Mathene published a book of short stories in Sesotho titled MOTSOTUWA (something exceptionally beautiful), that won the Thomas Mofolo Literary Prize.

Asked why Mahanke writes in Sesotho, he said: “My mother tongue is my comfort zone, because I don’t struggle to find expressions, as result what I want to write does not become a struggle, it comes naturally."

According to the novelist: “Language and culture are inseparable, you have a ready-made pool from which draw. Our life experiences they relate with our languages, so it is very easy to explain or define a situation in your own language than using another language. On daily basis, you update and accumulate your vocabulary that is dictated in which language you are expressing yourself”.

Mahanke was a lecturer in Sesotho language and literature at the University of the North, (now Limpopo), Qwa-Qwa Campus in 1982-1997. He was a proofreader for various publishing houses between 1982-1999. In 2005, he was appointed member of collaboration team (Sesotho) for Science Terminology by the Department of Arts and Culture (DAC) (national). In 2006, he served as the curator of Sesotho Literary Museum. In 2008 Mahanke was appointed Deputy Director & Head of the Language Service in the Free State province. He is a member and advisor’s of Moaba Sesotho Writer’s Association in the country

STUDY (BOOK) ON FLAXMAN QOOPANE

2011-06-19T03:47:00.000-07:00

Excitement is mounting among the literary fraternity in the Free State, as award winning author, Hector Kunene puts finishing touches to his next (third) book.

The new book is a study of Flaxman Qoopane, the flamboyant Free State based writer,
poet, journalist, actor, painter, essayist and journalist. It will be recalled that last year (2010), Mr. Kunene published an acclaimed study on the writer Omosey Bolaji.

Kunene said: “I am very excited about the new book. Mr. Jacob Moalusi ‘Flaxman’ Qoopane is an icon in many ways; we look up to him. Apart from his colourful character and career, he is also the founder of the celebrated QOOPANE LITERARY GALLERY. A wonderful gallery indeed!”

Kunene also disclosed that the new study on Flaxman Qoopane will not be a repetition of any of the author’s many biographical works. “This is more of a literary work, focusing on studies, critiques, quality reviews of the man’s life and work. Some of his most powerful articles, and literary speeches, will now be in book form,”

The main Introduction to the book is written by Mr. Bolaji, and Kunene says: “Nobody knows Mr Qoopane more than malume Bolaji. They have been in the literary and journalistic trenches together for a long time. Both their lives revolve around the written word. I can tell you that the Introduction is awesome!”

The new book will also have other inputs, like a revealing interview with Flaxman Qoopane. Smiling, Hector says: “Of course I have been doing a lot of research for this book. Talking to Mr Qoopane is being regaled by an icon, with his great experience and knowledge, a man very much immersed in the world of books”

Watch this space…

RAISING LITERARY STANDARDS

2011-06-06T07:50:00.000-07:00

By Kgosietsile Dintlhoane

Black Literature in Free State Province

…Don’t hurry to get published, Kgosietsile Dintlhoane, warns

First of all I would like to mention that I have no particular author
in mind, I am writing these notes to share with my fellow writers some
of the things I think they should know before they can even think of
publishing their work. I have read a lot on African and international
literature, be it novels, poetry, plays, essays, literary criticism,
biographies, auto-biographies and any other genre which I may not have
mentioned here.

I have enjoyed especially poetry, essays, biographies and
auto-biographies of various authors both home and abroad. Early in my
writings I was lucky enough to have met with Ntate Flaxman Qoopane who
read my work, probably my earliest work at the time and advised me not
to hurry in publishing my work. I value the advice a lot even today as
I can see today that it could have been a great regret had I published
what I wrote then.

Dear friends, maybe I should talk a bit more on why I value the advice
I got from Ntate Qoopane. Well the story begins in my high school
years where we were fed Euro-American literature from when we first
entered high school and in my case until I completed standard nine. In
Standard 10 we read Bessie Head’s “Maru” and before this I believed
that writers in the English language were white as we never read a
colored author before let alone black. To stretch the story even
further, I would like to mention that at home my father being a
teacher never really bothered with the type of books we were reading. The only thing he was interested in was a report to check the results.

Another thing that I would like to pose as a question, a question I
began asking myself after reading Ngugi wa Thion’go was who decides
what is to be read in the English curriculum by black kids in township
schools? Is it the HOD or the principal or the inspector or a body
elected to deal with such matters? Again, whoever decides
basis his/her decision on what, on what grounds is he/she allowed to
prescribe books written by whites (it does not matter whether is
Foreign or South African whites) in township schools; whereas there was
never a situation where you would find even in white public schools
books written by blacks or coloreds for that matter.

I have always had conversations with both Ntate Qoopane and Ntate
Bolaji about the material produced by our black authors in our
province. To summarize here, ideally a good book must be physically attractive, the content must show sterling reading and writing patterns; real writers are readers and
are supposed to write regularly; and also – perhaps the most important - is to write about what you know. I have read most of the books written in our province since 1996 and cannot say I
was moved by more than ten percent of them.

One grievous mistake that people make when deciding to become authors
is the illusion that they will make money out of writing. Let me be
the first to tell you, that is just being naïve. Great authors died
paupers simply because no matter how good authors they were, people
don’t buy books in numbers let alone poorly written books. The only
time when you can make some money out of writing would be when your
book gets prescribed for schools and universities. I can say in confidence that only about less
than ten black authors in Free State currently stand a chance of that
happening to them.

I would like to nip my note down to the art of writing poetry, I am
not an expert and do not claim to be one, it is just that I have read
a lot in this genre and learned a thing or two. First let me express
my dissatisfaction with what slam poetry has caused. We have today
probably 80% of plastic poets in Free State Province calling
themselves poets because they sat down and wrote something about
themselves and called it poetry.

I ask myself all the time why do people in my province hurry to
publish, and came to a conclusion that it could have everything to do
with wanting fame or thinking that they will make money out of their
writings. It saddens me a great deal to hear people talk in the street
that Free State poets are “playing” as compared to KZN, Jozi or Western
Cape poets. I think we should focus as a province on creating a group
of professional editors or maybe just two professional editors to edit
our work before we consider putting it out there on the shelves. I can
understand what these spoken word sessions try to achieve and do not
disagree with the intention; just the content of what is blurted out to
the public.

I am a concerned aspiring Free State Poet and I challenge all aspiring
writers and poets of my province to rise above what some think of us
by other writers in other provinces and begin to realize how important
it is to take time to sharpen the skill as well as share with
professionals one’s draft manuscript for perusal and advice so that
by the time one considers to publish, the material is worth
publishing.

I hope my note will be read in a positive light, those with BIG egos
will probably want to criticize me, or label me arrogant, bastard or
whatever fancy name they will think of; well you are more than welcome
to and those with open minds I am available to help.

With all the love in my heart

* Mr. Kgosietsile Dintlhoane, a poet and literary essayist, formerly wrote a column titled “The Bibliophile” for Free State News.

MEET SHEILA KHALA

2011-05-23T05:05:00.000-07:00

By Seleke Botsime

Her name is Sheila Nomalanga Khala, and she is from our neighbouring country Lesotho. Just twenty years old; her journey as a budding wordsmith started in 2006 in Maseru when she had the opportunity to be part of the “poetry farm”.

That was in 2007 - 2009. She told Free State News: “The atmosphere is more conducive now that I have moved to Bloemfontein. I used to study Statistics at the University of Lesotho and now I am currently studying Sociology preparing to pursue my Drama and Theatre Studies.” Now, this is a woman with a vision, and she makes a point that nothing should stand in her way!

Her first book is titled “Formula: leading life to perfection”. She said: “I wrote the book in memory of my father who passed on last year. For me, it is more like a therapy to be able to take out my frustration,” She is already looking forward to her second book that will be released sometime in 2011.

Meanwhile she’s already been heralded as a young promising African poet of note, with key literary figures like O Bolaji praising her work and potential. (Check the internet further to see other articles on Sheila)

She also said that the tentative name of her second book will be “My pen is a socialite”. When Free State news asked her what it is that keeps her going, she simply said: “It’s having focus and believing in God.” Sheila is young and vibrant with an attractive disposition. Her vibrancy is at its best when she shares her artistic world, speaking about her fears, dreams, hopes and future plans.

Free State news wishes this highly talented young poet a success in her career, especially after realising that she is indeed a mover and shaker of our times. She is also a musician, motivational speaker and a journo!

Those who have seen her in dramatic action at the Pacofs poetry sessions attest to her vibrancy!

* This article was originally published in Free State News in 2010

PROUD OF HIS COLLECTION OF SHORT STORIES

2011-04-29T07:17:00.000-07:00

Proud of his collection of short stories

By Flaxman Qoopane

Vic Walker, a Master’s Degree in Drama and Theatre student at the University of the Free State (U.F.S), has published his first book of short stories – Little Wheels of Happiness.

Walker, a white writer, told Free State News: “Little Wheels of Happiness has the following short stories – The Wheel, Horse Power, Samson in the Free State, The Great Trek, Aardvark Jackals, Why can’t Calves As Well, Dear Mother-In-Law, The Cape is Too far”

Vic did his first year in B.A degree in drama and theatre arts at U.F.S in 1992. And he resumed his studies in 2006 and finished his degree at the age of 50, in 2007.

“In 1992, there was no lotto, which meant that there were no loans or bursaries to study in the arts at the University. I could only resume my studies in 2006, after I sold my stand (piece of land for R100 000) in Rosendal in the Free State and I went back to U.F.S to study,”

At the age of 13, Walker was invited to read a theatrical work at the Bethlehem Amateur Theatre in the Free State. “That thing lingered. I went to Durban. I became a beach-bum (a beggar). And I was a swimmer, my love was swimming,”

According to Vic, in 1992 his mother gave him R3000 to go and study at the University. “I was jobless, living with my mother, and I came to UFS to study. I could not buy books at the University. So I worked at the Fonteina Hotel in Bloemfontein. I had a place to stay and I got food. I was a bouncer for six months at the hotel,”

Alas, the hotel was to change hands. “The hotel was sold. I was on the street. I went to the Head of Drama at the University to study on debt. After I told him that I was living in the veld, he accommodated me in the theatre and I was comfortable,”

“Art is my only umbrella,” he emphasised to Free State News. “I have been living with art all my life. I was doing paintings, selling them from door to door. I’m in the said league as a preacher. I am a professional beggar with my paintings,”

THE LOVE OF WRITING

2011-03-28T03:44:00.000-07:00

The love of writing

By Mpumelelo Mtjekelo (Mangaung)

Dear Diary

Writing is my second best friend. It is neither a he nor she, it’s not human yet it feels like it is a living thing (organism) that listens whenever I need to talk. Without any fear I share all my stories knowing it will only be known by me and my living organism. This organism is different compared to humans because it doesn’t judge me!

In writing unlike talking there is freedom, it gives me the chance to let it all out. Sometimes I share a story with a human but after telling the story to humans there are times when I’d regret saying what I said and other times I fear that he/she might expose my story. With my organism after sharing my story I am able to heal and trust it, and also the funny part in writing is that sometimes within writing I can find a solution to a problem that I had. If not, it gives me the ability to cry and let it all out.

Dear Diary, there was of course a time I thought “why not share this with the world?” It is not that I trust the world with my information but it also feels great having to hear people reading my stories saying hey, this has twisted my life in a good manner or this (article) is actually talking about me. Writing is a different world; it is relaxing and fun; other times it is an adventure. It is to just let your imagination run wild without anyone stopping you.

It can be done anywhere at any time because sometimes I am inspired by something around me to start writing. On the other side, it is often stated that humans (i.e we black people) don’t like reading and if you are to hide a lot of money or a treasure you should consider a book! It is very rare that one will be able to realize that there is something worthy in the book.

And so I write to you…
Dear Diary

* From her Dear Diary Column

OPERATION HLASELA AUGMENTS WRITER'S WORK!

2011-03-19T03:05:00.000-07:00

By Flaxman Qoopane

Operation Hlasela donated R35 000 to Setshaba Marumo who published his motivational book- Be the best that you can.

Speaking at the launch of his book at the windmill casino and entertainment centre in Bloemfontein, said: “I would like to thank Ace Magashule the Premier of the Free State and the Operation Hlasela for donating R35 000 to me to publish my print book. Each person should be the best that you can be,”

Rosaline Raseboya Sebolao, a motivational speaker and author of Living a life that is pleasing to God, said; “When Marumo asked me to mentor him, I agreed. I saw so much potential in him. Be blessed as you enjoy his first book that he launched today,”

Fezile Wetes, HR consultant of SEDA said, “I have known Marumo for many years. I have seen him becoming what he is, and this is the most wonderful time for him to be alive. It takes a nation a lot of time to produce a hero. His passion for reading and writing enabled him to launch his first book,”

Captain Mosela Tshangela from Parkroad Police Station in Bloemfontein said; “On 20 August 2010, D.J Shaxe Khumalo from Motheo FM talked about Setsha’s book. I was inspired and I bought a copy and I wish everybody can have his or her copy,”

Aubrey Nappie [41] Human Resources Manager at the Windmill Casino and Entertainment Centre said; “The Corporate Social Investment arm of the windmill casino did a media release about the launch of the book. During the book launch we provided the venue catering to the event, and we bought several copies of the book.”

TEBOHO MASAKALA'S NOVEL

2011-03-16T23:32:00.000-07:00

TEBOHO MASAKALA’s NOVEL

Book: Through it all
Author: Teboho Masakala
Publisher: Tam Books (Selosesha, Thaba Nchu)
ISBN: 978-0-620-49987-3

He is only 23 but Teboho Masakala is already the author of two books. Last year he published a book of short stories, and this week his first novel (actually technically a novella) came out, titled THROUGH IT ALL.

Masakala is now fulfilling the promise and potential the literary pundits saw in him a few years ago. The young man is very proud of his roots from Thaba ‘Nchu and in his own way he is putting the town on the map.

“I am what I am because of Thaba Nchu,” he told Free State News this week. “I am so pleased and proud that my first novel is out! I have always loved writing fiction. I now know that it is not something that anyone, not even all writers, can just do. It requires talent, discipline, imagination. A writer must have moral compass”

Teboho’s debut novel, Through it all focuses on a certain young woman and her vicissitudes. The protagonist is Monica Classen who is dragged through the mill! After the death of her parents, she is unfortunately raped by her own uncle, an exceedingly harrowing experience for her.

She decides to flee Thaba Nchu and start a new life in Bloemfontein, but her ordeal is not over; not by a long shot. More painful episodes await her till in the end, like a deus ex machina all is well with her, and her sorrows are behind her. Read this moving work and bask!

Excerpt from the book (exemplifying the sad metamorphosis of Monica): “Monica (who had been) fragile, kind-hearted, was now this weak, controlled drugs loving, money hungry Monica…the city of Bloemfontein had swallowed her and was not prepared to throw her up anytime soon as there was no way out…”

Get a copy!

- O Bolaji

APPRECIATING "HOLD BACK YOUR TEARS"

2011-01-05T01:56:00.000-08:00

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

THE POETRY OF PULE LECHESA

2010-12-02T02:22:00.000-08:00

Book: The Legacy we leave behind (poetry)
Author: Pule Lechesa
Publisher: Phoenix Press, Ladybrand, and Lesotho (2004)
(Republished, 2006 and 2010)

Pule Lechesa (left) and O Bolaji

Pule Lechesa, born and bred in Ladybrand, has been described as “the mighty bard from the dorp”. He started reciting his poems publicly at rallies, social gatherings and functions from the tender age of 17. He worked as a volunteer court interpreter at the Ladybrand District Magistrates’ Court. He is also a motivational speaker who holds sway at schools, prisons, Colleges et al.

Interestingly the book, The legacy we leave behind, is dedicated to a very young five year old boy “who was knocked down by a speeding lorry and died on the spot. However on the same day his mother gave birth to a wonderful baby named Relebohile; i e ‘we are so grateful to God’!”

The poet’s elevated language is at his best whilst delineating the life of the lost young one:

“Descending like a tantalising dark-cloud...
Hovering and floating on high o’er vales and mountains
Carrying heralds of hope to revive our dessicated fountains...”

(Page 7)

The empathy of the poet is convincing enough; especially in a poem like “Divorcee’s Elegy” which also contains rhythmical rhymes to boot:

“Her memory gone dead; utterly dead
The scar consequent upon the truncheon on her forehead
The taste-buds of an erstwhile love life tickled
The appetite of the other matrimony tarnished
‘Men are cut from the same odious cloth’ soliloquised her...”

(Page 13)

It is clear enough that in this his maiden collection of poetry, Pule Lechesa has been very much influenced by the western tradition of writing, with echoes of old-fashioned English heritage surrounding his poetry. Lechesa hence reminds us of great Black African poets like Christopher Okigbo and Lenrie Peters who were heavily influenced by western literature.

The poems in this work are:

Artisan of joy is no more
The milk skins
Mine God giveth life
I am free to be me
Divorcee’s elegy
Mending the broken pot
Everything is against my will
The lady in purple
African renaissance
Thoughts on life
Losing a friend
The legacy we leave behind
Peace
What is in a name?
Alone all alone
Who am I?
Fare thee well
No more is our milk kine
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pule Lechesa’s debut collection of poems is very promising.

*Courtesy of the Eclectic Writers’ Club. Originally published in 2004

OMOSEYE BOLAJI

2010-11-06T01:34:00.000-07:00

A new book by Hector Kunene (2010)
The latest and most comprehensive study on writer Omoseye Bolaji!
Pages: 117
Published by New Voices (Cape Town)

This book description is taken from Open Library:

“This is the latest, and most comprehensive study, of Omoseye Bolaji, the black African writer. The author (or editor) Hector Kunene, furnishes us with an excellent Introduction, and ends this work with a superb, cosmopolitan interview with Bolaji himself. This work contains almost 30 articles, essays, write-ups, critiques etc on various aspects of Omoseye Bolaji's literary works. A must read for anybody interested in African writing.”

Poem by Hector Kunene dedicated to Omoseye Bolaji

I shall not praise you!
For effortlessly taking your own time
Why should you be thanked for your own free will working for your own black skin?
For your own toils that led to your own achievements and your own blood that you sweated for your own glory
The very mystery still persists for explanation as to why you wrote your well known pieces yet nothing much is known about you
I shall not praise you!
Who cares about your ability to transfer thoughts into paper?
When anybody can speak their minds even if they are improper?
This world is but a stage for expressions
Where individuals walk as they please to satisfy their feet for journeys
I shall not praise you!
I shall not take off my hat for you
I shall neither salute thee nor permit thee to be saluted for honour!
For honour is meant for giants who step into the ring and be felt of their being!
Those who march and sweat blood whilst we sting them with their bees
They flee and get rewarded with fruitful crowns that end up rusting of their fingerprints!
I shall not praise thee! ...
(from page 23 of the book, OMOSEYE BOLAJI, by Hector Kunene)

TEBOHO MASAKALA'S FIRST BOOK

2010-09-17T03:57:00.000-07:00

By F Qoopane

Free State writer and dramatist Teboho Andries Masakala’s short-story collection Mind, Pen, Paper and Ideas has been published.

Teboho Masakala said: “The book consists of six short stories. It is about friendship, love, betrayal, tragedy and a lesson in life. It teaches people to be aware of some aspects in life including betrayal by some friends and life in general.”

According to Masakala, a short story to him is a way to express his mind and his feelings. “When I put my ideas on a paper, I connect my characters with my readers through the short stories I have written. My readers experience the way I feel through my writing”

When Teboho joined the Goronyane High School in Thaba Nchu, Free State, in South Africa in 2003, he read a number of books including Harry Potter and the chamber of the Secret, Prisoner of Azban and all other series of the Harry Potter books. He was also influenced by the writings of Bessie Head (Maru) and of Chinua Achebe; namely books like No longer at ease and The Voter.

Masakala recalls: “When I was 14 years old, I wrote my first short story titled: Aaliyah Through Her Eyes and Tears. It is about Aaliyah’s sufferings after the death of her parents. My English teacher, and also a debate teacher Ratshui Kgotso from Goronyane High School liked my work especially the way I unfolded my characters through tears and tragedy in the short-story”

He attended Selosesha Primary School in Thaba Nchu. “I was introduced to reading English books by my teacher and Principal, Kelopile Moletsane. We read illustrated short story books including Maggie the Magic Snake. And when I was 12 years old I enjoyed reading Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare” he adds.

In 2007, while visiting the Selosesha Public library in Thaba Nchu he read some books written by Omoseyi Bolaji. “In 2008, when I was at the Bloemfontein Public Library I noticed Mr
e Bolaji and I introduced myself to him as an up-and-coming writer. He took me to his Office at the Free State News where he introduced me to Free State Black Literature and he also encouraged me to send some of my short stories to his newspaper – which he published”

THABA NCHU LITERATURE FORGES AHEAD

2010-08-05T03:13:00.000-07:00

By Teboho Masakala

Over the years Thaba Nchu has not been regarded as a place of pulsating literature because there are few, or maybe limited writers to emerge out of it. Places like Bloemfontein have always been given preference over Thaba Nchu as it has many writers.

However, Thaba Nchu has writers that are still yet to be discovered, as there are a lot of poets in Thaba Nchu that can help change the face of literature in our place, with fine authors, and also a poet known as Richard “Skietreker” Seape having published a book called “AFRIKAANS EK GAAN JOU BOKS”. The gentleman who is also a literary activist has given Thaba Nchu writers some foundation to exhibit their work.

On a personal note, with my up-coming collection of short stories to be entitled “MIND, PEN, PAPER AND IDEAS” I also hope to revive the talent of literature that is still hidden in THABA NCHU- interested people can read my short story on wwww.google.com and search for Teboho Masakala.

One of the problems we have in Thaba Nchu is the lack of publishers. If there can at least be one or two publishers to publish our work that would have given us as the writers of Thaba Nchu some platform to start somewhere; and another problem is that publishers are very expensive and it costs a lot of money to publish a single book and that scares and de-motivates our aspiring authors

In the meantime we as writers in Thaba Nchu are very very scarce, only few grassroots people like books and read them, you will find few people reading novels while others are reading academic books just only to pass and after that they throw them away. I have taken it up on myself as a young author to make sure that Thaba Nchu is one of the places to be considered when coming to literature and to see to it that we have more writers and poets to be proud of.

Well known and internationally acclaimed writer Ntate Bolaji is one of the established and well known authors who have always encouraged writers to excel and to love writing. Thaba Nchu needs to be a reading place; we need to start our own book clubs to showcase our talent to the rest of Mangaung and Free State as a whole. We have very good poets; one of them is Doraldo poet who is well known as Abel.

I think that it is time Thaba Nchu authors got out of hiding and joined me to make sure that we make our place a well known place when coming to literature with its Authors known - another problem is our authors might not have pride in their place, many are even shy to say that they come from Thaba Nchu!

Thus far I have only released two short stories with a Bloemfontein local newspaper called Free State news and the literary world was happy about me and that made me feel proud about Thaba Nchu, my place where I garnered my writing foundation, I am not even shy to say that I come from this place, I love literature and hope to be a great author like Wole Soyinka, Chinua Achebe, O Bolaji, Zakes Mda etc

It is time we got together to make sure that there is a rise in Thaba Nchu literature, aluta continua, the struggle to make Thaba Nchu literature a success continues…
Email me for your comment on www.tebohomasakala@yahoo.com

Teboho Masakala is a very young man who loves literature and avows that he wants to change the face of literature in Thaba Nchu His short stories can be read on the internet

FS AUTHOR GETS PLAUDITS FOR NEW WORK

2010-07-07T00:46:00.000-07:00

By M Mofokeng

The literary fraternity of the Free State, and beyond, is raving over a new work of fiction just published by a black female author.

The voluminous work, titled DEEPEST SPRINGS is written by the Mangaung based writer, NMM Duman, and the high quality of the novel is sending many literary figures into a frenzy. "It's a great, great work," well known Free State poet Raselebeli Khotseng, told Mangaung Issue. "A novel comparable to the best in Africa's rich literary history. A masterpiece really"

Literary critic, Paul Lothane, also insisted that Deepest Springs is world class. "Mme Duman is a great pride to the Free State, South Africa and the continent in general. Her great work is as good, or even better than the work of Africa's best black female writers like Tsitsi Dangaremgba and Sindiwe Magona"

Lothane added: "These are very exciting times for FS black literature. Duma can hold her head high anywhere after producing such a fantastic novel. I agree with Bolaji's international review of Deepest Springs (on the internet) where he insists that Duman's work bears comparison to that of the legendary Bronte (Charlotte and Emily) sisiters. We are all proud of her (Duman)"
- Courtesy of Mangaung Issue July 7 2010 edition

LAUNCHING DUMAN'S DEEPEST SPRINGS

2010-06-21T05:13:00.000-07:00

BY HECTOR KUNENE

Dateline: 18th June 2010

LAUNCHING DUMAN’S DEEPEST SPRINGS

It was an inspiring, unforgettable affair as the voluminous, imaginative work, Deepest Springs, by NMM Duman was launched in the city of Roses.

Firstly, I must say that the library space that was used was very welcoming and showed that a major preparation and decorations were taken into deep consideration. From the poets who rendered their pieces - the likes of Mr. Magic Raselebeli Khotseng to Mr. Kgang Abel Motheane and yours truly (Hector Kunene) was absolutely amazing.

The charming Charmaine Mrwebi was the chairlady and addressed the crowd of about 35 guests well with great motivation for the young writers who still want to get their work published. She also emphasized that it is of vital role for authors to use their mother tongue in order to promote indigenous languages.

Hector Kunene delivered a pulsating speech and a poem called a Life of a woman and dedicated it to the Author of the day, Mrs. Duman. Mr. Motheane stated that it is important for writers to express themselves and tell stories from generation to generation. He also motivated more on bridging the gap and learning other languages; as a result he is a living example as some of his books he has written in Zulu, Sotho Tswana, Pedi and Xhosa.

Mr. Raselebeli blazed the crowd with a poem called “If wishes were horses” and got the crowd “eating out of his palms” The book reading by three ladies who rendered a couple of chapters of the book gave an alarming call about the character of Dikeledi and Kuena whom it is a responsibility of all to find out by reading the book which will soon be available in the library however the contacts are available for those who would love to purchase a copy.

I understood the book to be multi-diversity in terms of where the author was aiming to reach. It is politically and culturally inclined. There is a point of beginning and it reaches climax at a certain point and the only way to get to the full story is by reading it.

I enjoyed the humility of the writer herself when she took the stage and addressed her crowd. I felt her sense of humility and the love for writing as she explained that the over 400 paged book was actually double the size it is now, so the publisher had to speak her down in cutting the story for printing! I said to myself: “Yoh this great woman can write!”, and right there she demonstrated that you don’t need to write according to schedule. She pulled a bank letter that she also wrote on it a new story; now that is a writer that means business.

I was also captivated by her smile and her pride of achievement that was hidden deep inside her humble voice; and she exhumed with brio and a level of excellence as she presented her love for writing and that she was actually inspired by her mother who told her stories. By now I was gasping for air, wondering what she was going to say next as she rivaled with words and made pure sense. Although she did not want to sell the book herself but I could tell that she had it covered as she did not go into details about the book price… but then came her husband who spoke more about money and publishers other than other things.

The book cover was designed by the author’s daughter, so I guess a family has shown us that together working as one we can achieve many. Apparently the other daughters also write, so I take it that we must expect a lot from the Duman family! The book looks brilliant outside and I picked up that once you start reading it you will never stop until you are finished. At some point I wanted to swipe my card right there and buy a copy - however there was no facility to do this but I owe myself a copy.

Last but not least Mrs. Duman seemed more to me like Bessie Head. Her style of writing reminded me of the book I read years ago called Maru by Bessie Head and apparently the book also has a character called Dikeledi. After the launch I grabbed myself a sandwich as I avoided a queue behind Mrs. Duman and when I approached her she was signing an autograph to another fan so I waited for her to finish and whilst I was talking with her, another fan was queuing behind me so you can imagine what the future holds for Duman. I wish her all the best and I must say she has challenged me and other writers based in Free State and the outside world.

By the way, our brilliant author started writing her book in 1996 - and it’s just been released in 2010! Do the Maths; now who can say dreams don’t come true! She will do great and with that size of the book it means business. What a humble woman she is. May God bless her work….

The sparkling poetry of Teboho Mohanoe

2010-06-18T06:49:00.000-07:00

By O Bolaji

When we read something - be it a piece of prose or poetry, we often want it to interest us, to fascinate us, to come across as fresh, as the experts say. Normally the language used in poetry is supposed to be heightened hence those we refer to as "poets" often have impressive facility with words.

A poet like Job Mzamo (in Mangaung) is a sort of wordsmith, using language and imagery to fascinate us, knocking words into light, bouncy, lissome, even irreverent, burnished shapes; and creating poetry in the process. Teboho Mohanoe is on the way to becoming a sophisticated poet, and this short essay is about him.

My main concern here is his poem, "Mary" published in his book, Enter the Night (DRUFOMA 2001). It is one of his simpler poems, but one with a powerful message. The message comes across at the very end. In this poem the poet begins by telling us about how a particular lady is abused, is long suffering. Then the very end:

"And she was buried today"

This haunting ending is proof enough that the poet has succeeded admirably at putting across his message - and in a style which is simple enough. The freshness of the poem reaches an apogee by using this style.

In fact the way the poem is structured reminds me of a poem, "Just a passer by". By Oswald Mtshali. (Published in "A selection of African Poetry" edited by Senanu and Vincent) In this poem, the poet describes how a man was gruesomely killed, as if (the poet) does not really care. Then he goes home, and a woman neighbour says to him:

"Have you heard? They’ve killed your brother"

"O No! I heard nothing. I’ve been to Church"

The strength of the poem lies in the fact that the poet is ultimately being ironic and sarcastic; for he not only heard about the death; he witnessed it himself!

The first time I read Mohanoe’s poem, "Mary", I asked him whether he had read Mtshali’s poem (referred to above), and in his typical inscrutable, inconclusive manner, Mohanoe just smiled and nodded. Maybe he was impressed by the much earlier Mtshali poem hardly matters; as Mohanoe’s "Mary" is distinctive in its own right.

Lovers of poetry might also draw a parallel between Mohanoe’s poem, and Michael Echeruo’s "Threnody" (Also published in the book, "A Selection of African Poetry"). Here the poet light heartedly seems to be rejoicing with the world (nature); then suddenly:

"I caught my doveIn the heart of spring
And I was dead!"

This type of conclusion tends to jolt the reader’s attention, resulting in concentrated bafflement and interest. And such writing appeals to a large number of people.

HOW DO I TALK ABOUT MY ORDEAL?

2010-06-03T07:31:00.000-07:00

New book by Maxwell Perkins Kanemanyanga

“Maiwe –mama - we –mama - we, can somebody please help me!,” she could not fight back anymore. All she could do was just kick and scream but to no avail. The monster grabbed her with his iron like, muscular hands. “If you continue making noise I am going to kill you. I can slaughter you even now, you hear me?” He looked her straight in the eyes, wearing a face of brutality with red eyes and she continued sobbing looking on the ground. She realized he meant what he said. In her heart she was just praying that he would just take whatever he wanted and leave her alive.

Maze was a pretty, intelligent, smart and innocent girl with a very bight future. She was the kind of girl who could not even kill an insect. Her mother always used to fight with her because she was scared even to slaughter a chicken. Her defense was that even though it was meat she always felt sorry to end its life.

Just sixteen years old, she was developing into a very beautiful woman like her mother. Having been raised in a strict family, she was determined to do well in her life. Her father was a pastor at a mission in the village and her mother was also teaching at the same mission. All she wanted in life was to become a nurse; surely she could make it because she was bright and committed to her school work. Even her mother agreed that, it was the best profession for her because she was very kind. In the near future she wanted to go and study her nursing in the city close to her one and only David.

David, her boyfriend was her senior at school. He was an intelligent young man but very short tempered. Everyone, even his teachers knew that he was a no nonsense young man. David passed his matric very well and went on to study medicine at the university. Even though he was far in the middle of the city he continued to communicate with his sweetheart. Maze was really the darling of his family, they all loved her. It was also the same situation at Maze’s family, they all loved David. They wished the two will get married and grow old together.

If only she knew what she was going to meet today she would have stayed home. But such is life; we never know what tomorrow brings. Maze spent the whole morning and afternoon at home. In the afternoon her best friend from school, Memory came to visit her. The two young friends spent the afternoon studying, gossiping and giggling. Memory was staying about two kilometers away from the mission. It was in the same village but there was a forest in between. When it was almost Sunset, Maze accompanied her friend to her place. “Maze my dear you have to go back home. I do not want your parents to panic for no reason.” The two friends hugged each other and went different directions.

Moses was a very talented footballer but very ill disciplined. His teachers told him to work hard and take football as a career but to no avail. He liked to drink and smoke. Some even suspected that he was a drug addict. He ran away from school without even finishing his matric. It is always like this - once a student starts drinking and smoking. It is not easy to concentrate on school work. Smoking is addictive and not all students have the money to buy cigarettes even though they like blow the smoke in the air. Moze, as he was known by his friends, joined a junior team. Sometimes he would go to training sometimes they would never see him even for more than a week. The coaches liked him very much but they could not do anything with his ill discipline.

One day his coach saw Moses’ picture in the paper. The police were looking for him in connection with house robbery. Moses ran away from the city to a small village where he knew people don’t see newspapers everyday. It was in this forest that he met helpless Maze coming from her friend’s place.

She never saw him coming. But judging by the way he grabbed her by the waist she knew she was in deep trouble. There was no way she could fight this monster. He was strong, muscular and evil. “Your chance to survive lies in doing what I want you to do. If you want to be stubborn I will show you that I can be stubborn too.’’, she could not reply, all she could do was sob.

Moses carried the poor sobbing girl away from the small road to the small shrubs far away. He laid her on the ground, tore her pants and forcibly opened her legs….

Read the rest of this short story, in the new book of stories: HOW DO I TALK ABOUT MY ORDEAL? by Maxwell Perkins Kanemanyanga. Those interested in the book can phone 071 0446879

WRITER HONOURED

2010-05-29T03:47:00.000-07:00

The Bloemskrywerskring (Writers’ club) of Heidedal in Mangaung has presented author Omoseye Bolaji with an award for his outstanding contributions to Free State, and African literature. He was given a trophy and certificate for producing “excellent, thrilling fiction on a consistent basis”

The award was presented to Bolaji by Marika Du Plessis, Secretary of the club, who said: “Libraries are of very great significance, as the young ones should learn good habits of reading from an early age. The great thing about Mr. Bolaji is that his books have a lot of appeal because of their local colour. His literary productivity has been very consistent and seems to scale new heights on a yearly basis”

Omoseye Bolaji has published well over ten books of gripping fiction. He created the Tebogo Mystery series which is now world famous. Books under this series include Tebogo Investigates, Tebogo’s spot of bother and Tebogo Fails. Bolaji is also the author of novels like People of the Townships, The Ghostly Adversary, and Impossible Love.

Flaxman Qoopane, well known Free State writer and long-time colleague of Bolaji, said: “It is a pity that African writers are not celebrated in great fashion, unlike their counterparts overseas. It’s very irritating, but we hope things will become better. For example I have inaugurated a literary museum, but so many of our people do not know the importance of this. This produces the incongruous situation where writers like Bolaji are celebrated overseas much more than they are in their own continent”

Indeed, Omoseye Bolaji is now one of Africa’s top creative writers. This can be ascertained from the hundreds of references on his writings on the internet. Among many awards, Bolaji was the first black person to be conferred with the Chancellor’s Medal by the University of the Free State (in 2007)

Bolaji, who lives in Bloemfontein, is the author of over 20 books which are internationally recognized. They include The Termagant, The Guillotine, The Subtle Transgressor, Tebogo and the Haka, Tebogo and the epithalamion, and Tebogo and the pantophagist.

- Courtesy of FS Sun (May 28 2010 edition)

XULU DIES

2010-05-29T03:36:00.000-07:00

Muntu Xulu part of warp and weft of Zulu Literature Muntu Jeremiah Xulu, novelist, playwright, former teacher, journalist and editor died after a long illness at his home in Vukazenzele, Mangaung in Bloemfontein on the 05th May 2010.

Bekumthetho S.Nkosi from Bhekuzulu in Kwa-Zulu Natal told Free State News “Muntu was my relative, he was an outstanding novelist, playwright and comedian. He published many novels, plays and a book of jokes in his own Zulu Language which was widely read at schools and universities in the country. Xulu had the gift of the pen.”

Jeremiah published the following novels in Zulu, Kunje Ke! published by Shutter and Shutter Publishers in 1987, Amalutha Emalutheni published by Educum Publishers in 2000, Amathe Nolimi published by Shutter and Shutter in 1997, Uthando Lunjeke published by N.G Kerk Printing Press in 1978, Nondela Mtanami Nondela published by Longman Publishers in 1988 and Mahlayana Mahlayana published by Shutter and Shutter publishers in 1981.

As a result of his contribution to the Zulu literature, the national Museum in Bloemfontein honoured him as part of their literary exhibition.Nhlanhlanhle L.Xulu from New Castle in Kwa-Zulu Natal said “My father studies journalism at Kitwe School of Journalism in Zambia in 1957 – 1958. He did another journalism course with the International correspondence School of Journalism in London, Britain in 1964 – 1969,”

He was born on 28 November 1930 in Johannesburg. He grew up in Kwa-Zulu Natal. In 1950 he completed his Teachers Training diploma at Umphumulo Institution.He was buried at the South Park Cemetery in Mangaung on 15 May 2010.

- F Qoopane

Modern trappings in Tebogo and the Haka

2010-04-29T23:21:00.000-07:00

By Pule Lechesa

Recent fictional works reflect how the world has moved on in the New Millennium, positively affecting the lives of countless black people at grassroots level all over Africa . This patent trend can be seen for example in Omoseye Bolaji’s work of fiction, Tebogo and the haka

We read and re-read our old favourites, novels, plays etc written by distinguished African writers over the decades and we are struck about the rather old-age ambience of such works. We feel that there is something missing – and most likely that thing is modern technology. Pick up Njabulo Ndebele’s classic, Fools for example and the ambience seems not so different from the setting of 19th century books like Emily Bronte’s Wuthering Heights.Yet Zamani, the protagonist in Fools, is a school teacher and “middle class” in orientation. But he has few comforts compared with the modern world perks. Not even electricity. Nowadays we are awash with modern gadgets and technology and these things are incorporated into modern fiction.

Gone are the days when stationary phones and faxes were the ultimate in technology as can be seen from thousands of books published just a few decades ago.The face of the modern world has changed so much that most people now have access to things like cell phones, the Internet and ipods. In fact it is understood that in some African countries now “even beggars have one two or more cell phones”. This shows how the whole world has changed. Very few African blacks might have access to internet in their private house but with so many “Internet cafes” all over the place – not to talk of at many libraries – the world has opened up, so to speak.

Hence Tebogo Mokoena , the private investigator of the Tebogo Mystery series reflects this exposure to modern technology, moreso in Tebogo and the haka. His wife, Khanyi, is in France but of course she keeps in touch with him thanks to modern technology, via emails and by phone. SMS (text messages) keep their love glowing despite the vast physical distances between them:

“Before I slept, I was delighted to receive a text (SMS) message from my wife, Khanyi. She reiterated her love for me, said Paris was great but she would prefer to be with me. ‘Sweet dreams honey,’ she ended, ‘big, big kisses’….I slept well”
(Tebogo and the haka)

As we see later on in the book SMS messages add to the mystery of the story as the plot unravels (but I do not want to give the plot away here); also, as part of the deference to modernity at the end of the book we are told about “slick, sophisticated tape recorder on my person”Despite the fact that Tebogo is in a small town (Ladybrand) he still has time to go to the Internet. As we are told:

“He (the owner of the Internet shop) smiled. ‘Ah, sometimes we just open for a few hours. Now people are becoming more interested in the Internet. Alas, right now, only one computer is working well. You can pay for 30 minutes, an hour…to user the internet’‘An hour would be fine,’ I said. ‘I’d like to catch up with my emails…’ I paid for an hour and read my disappointingly few emails. I had hardly spent 15 minutes here and I was more or less through…’”

(Tebogo and the haka)

Other aspects of the story/mystery here involve recordings being made and being shown on computers (not on TV which apparently has become common place!). We are no longer surprised these days that many people at grassroots level have access to computers and sophisticated recorders. It is all part of our modern trappings – which keeps on improving and growing daily.

There are some people who believe that the modern generation has lost a lot (spiritually and intellectually), with so much technology around; that the likes of the Bronte sisters 200 years ago (Emily and Charlotte, to mention the most famous duo) honed their intellect because there was no electricity then (so no electrical gadgets at the time) – that they had ample time to think, go for walks, meditate and construct. The quality of their published works certainly shows their awesome intellect.

However others point out that with so much knowledge available to the world now – accessible more or less instantaneously from the Internet – people are over-spoilt for choice now and can avail themselves of wonderful opportunities. Certainly writers continue to write, and reflect and complement the goings-on in our world, as can be seen from Omoseye Bolaji’s Tebogo and the Haka.
* Originally published in 2009 in Lentswe. Slightly revised here

THE INTENTION OF MY LEGACY

2010-04-12T23:04:00.000-07:00

The intention of my legacy

A poem by Hector S Kunene

I am.
My birth symbolised irreversible revolution
I am glad I was not aborted, though I can never dispute a possible thought
My legacy lives on between my thoughts and my action
This life is but a flowing river from one to fill the other yet maintaining its origin.
These are the defining moments of where my ability is to bring about existence
These are the times of my true expressions releasing my inner potential
These times were recorded in the big book time before my journey began
My breaths and wreaths, sweats and statistics of my life were before I am.
I stretch my thoughts till my veins pound blood clots of ideas
Questioning time after time the true potential bared before my path
My legacy to toll and scroll down the life I aspired every breath I took
I finally understood the true meaning of my purpose of my legacy on earth
This life will not surpass my hard efforts in vain
I will never bear a fruitless crown on my walks long before I fall
This world can take a gift and send it to the dogs for a game of fouls
There is a true meaning of one's existence, every one's existence!
There is magnificence in a spoken word
There is a certain equivocal meanings that one is imperative to find
This life is of no use for the useless mind
I am.
I stand by my word that binds and defines who I am. H.S. Kunene

THE OTHER SIDE OF PASSION

2010-03-16T23:10:00.000-07:00

The other side of Passion

By O Bolaji

Dynamite in pulchritudinous form
Delectable contours attenuating the masculine will
Statuesque figure, model-like
Her carriage deliciously beguiling
Tantalising, knowledgeably sensuous lips
Eyes reeling one in, ineluctably
Skin alluringly refulgent
And dressed to kill

Dare I confess -
That I trembled at her seductive hearth?
That I dreamed of having her as mine
Impossible. An absurd ludicrous dream!
But the dream came true...
Maggie intoxicatingly became mine
Days and nights of bliss. Unbridled passion
So dreams do come true

Hayibo, now the dream has metamorphosed
Into grisly, Technicolour nightmare
My body is rocked with disease
Purulent outgrowths all over
And panoply of others in its wake
Maggie has given me a "social disease"!
Perhaps even Aids?
Hearken to my pathos and cries

- From the book, Snippets (1998) by O Bolaji

THE HANDS OF A SWEET WOMAN

2010-03-15T06:33:00.000-07:00

THE HANDS OF A SWEET WOMAN

(Dedicated to Gloria Marobele)

By Hector Kunene

As blazing as a furnace
As smooth as a new born leaf
As perfect as a porter’s art
As pure as the essence of her presence

She graced us with her smile of honour
She touched us and we turned gold
She walked in a room and it turned master bold

The hands of a sweet woman
We were robbed by a silly car accident
Yet we never forget her touched items
Her fingerprints remain a memory of statue

What artist would not appreciate her posture
Her cleavage and her voice of excellent melody
How we miss her worldly felt presence
Hoping she lies in her congenial peace of eternity

(Inspired by S Botsime)

LECHESA FOR KENYA

2010-03-04T07:19:00.000-08:00

Well known Free State writer, essayist, critic, poet, who is also the Sports Editor of Public Eye newspaper in Free State, Pule Lechesa, will be going to Kenya in the first round of a training course organised by the AFP foundation and FIFA in the programme called Win in Africa, with Africa associated with the 2010 World Cup to be hosted in South Africa in June.

The five days training session will take place in Nairobi from March 15 to Friday March 19. The effervescent Lechesa said: "The World Cup is going to be a run away succes as we are ready in all respects. The local and international journalists were taken in a tour 100 days countdown to the beginning of the tournament. They all spoke in unison saying that South Africa is ready."

Check out these links:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pule_Lechesa

http://www.freestate-black-literature.co.za/article15.html

HECTOR KUNENE: YOUNG POET GLITTERS

2010-02-25T07:02:00.000-08:00

Hector Kunene...

Hector Kunene is a young South African aspiring poet, who was born and bred at Hammersdale in 1992. “A place where politics reigned with bloodshed and the burning of houses for the fight of dominance between ANC and IFP in general around” he says in his poetic manner.

He told Free State news that he is the first born in the family with two other siblings. “I worked in my life just after completing my matric and the love of art and poetry continued from there; after it all began in high school.” Hector, who oozes superb confidence, emphasises that it is very important for one to realise his/her potential from an early stage.

His work is yet to be published in book form; but one of the poems he wrote called Bloody Corpuscles appeared in the national paper, Sunday World. “From there on I continued putting finishing touches to my first offering, an anthology called Through the tunnel. The poem Bloody Corpuscles is about the alarming use of the specific words when talking especially to the young ones.”

Hector’s performances straddle places called Caprivi in Tembisa North Johannesburg where he would normally attend weekly poetry sessions and perform with artists from all spheres who would come and showcase their gifts.

The flamboyant young poet from Kwazulu Natal is a full-fledged Zulu who still “speaks a breasted (Mother tongue) language” though he spent the rest of his high school life in Johannesburg from 1996-2001. His poems are written mainly in English, “although I still write in Zulu - Inkomo Zobaba and Maye Kufa which are normally shared in funerals”

He is hoping to get a publisher soon and be able to release his book that is titled “Through the tunnel . His message to young aspiring writers is that they must spend time assiduously doing what they love and explore their talent. The one person that inspires him is the great Kgafela wa Magogodi who shot to fame with “Thy Condom Come” and wrote the play “I write what I like”
- S Botsime
* Reproduced by kind permission of Free State News

THE INTUITIVE VOICE OF A POET

2010-02-08T06:38:00.000-08:00

THE BOOKSHELF

With Kgang Abel Motheane

Book: The Intuitive Voice of a Poet
Author: Saint George Vis
Publisher: Eclectic Writers Club

This book contains a collection of poems written by Vis when he was still a very young writer. Indeed Vis has now published many books including the acclaimed Indaba with Free State writers last year. His first book was First things first.

It is remarkable that so many poets have emerged and continue to do so from the townships of the Free State. It must be admitted that there is a bias towards the metropolis like Bloemfontein, Mangaung in general; but we can be sure that many poets are in all the nooks and crannies of the province. Quite a number of them have published books of poems over the years.

Such published (book) poets apart from Mr Vis include Lebohang Thaisi, Leslie Tlhabanelo, Tiisetso Makhele, Qoopane, Tiisetso M Thiba, Richard “Skietreker” Seape, Job Mzamo, yours truly (Ntate Motheane) among others. Other established poets set to publish their books of poetry anytime from now include Charmaine Mrwebi, Neo Mvubu, Jah Rose, “Magic” Khotseng, and Icebound Serame.

Vis is described in his book of poems as “a thinker and philosopher” Despite his youth when he first published the book, “he did not allow his rather privileged background to spoil him or affect his writing career”

I went through all the poems and the following impressed me most: Perseverance, Never Say Pain, O Bolaji (Tribute to a great writer) etc. Vis must be commended for his range and diction.

Indeed this book of poems will further enhance the author’s reputation as he covers a wide range of topics. The sky seems to be the limit for him after publishing so many books whilst still quite young.
* Reproduced by kind permission of Free State News

THE TEARS OF KAPUT HEART

2010-01-25T06:56:00.000-08:00

The tears of Kaput Heart

BY TIISETSO MATTHEW THIBA

Days and rains approach him with happiness and smile
And knock on his doors of life
He was the most delighted man in the earth
When he met her for the first time
Life was promised them all the best
They have taken their life gradually and hopefully
They were still enjoying the melody of hurdy-gurdy
Love is hush-hush
How beautiful it was when they emerged on the
Face of the society, hand to hand even some have been
Sceptical about the pair.
But they were perfect on their own.
Lies and cheating they were buried uncounted feet underground
Loyalty and faithfulness is power to defeat the difficulties and the
Bad odds of life
Even they can detour through the valley of death
They were aiming to be the soldier at war enthusiastically for the triumph
But this man was cry the tears of blood
He was ecstatic interior and exterior
With an ant grin on his face when he talked about her
One day came sneaking to impale its spear into his heart
And demoralise his hope, but he is the man of his words
He never surrenders easily
Someone intervened between them
This soul keen his soul mate
In life they say friend could become lovers
Indeed they became lovers and he was the spectator of that saga
When she distinguish she said she wasn’t considering him sternly
Though he was; poor serene man writhe and crawl through predicament
Of mire because of her.
It really hurts him
Plenty of why’s question, force itself hurl into his head
His inception to ask himself
Why she made him hurt when she was supposed to sympathise him
Why she patronised him instead of granting him respect
Why she made him cry instead of wiping tears and silver stripes on his cheeks
Is she the wrong choice at the right time?
Does she adore him even when she hates him?
Is she grinning even when she loathes him?
The man's heart was indeed broken into pieces like a jamjar and vase.
His premonition was one united family
With two to three kids though society and families
Gets increased which fascinating
He kept his pledge like they vowed from the beginning
Deeming of a good family with no one seemingly around
Living happily ever likes birds with no spy’s and loathers
To fade the blooming rose
Considered her as a dolly-bird, beautiful like African Monarch
With flawless GOD beauty.
The man cried like a helpless child in the lion den
His crying was din and whooping like a startling singing a heartfelt note.
Tiger was ultimately cry-out
Even many say tiger don’t cry but he should cry to armour his health
From the opulent heart-attack
He was forever trying to surplus his shore up and his kind-hearted to her
But it was seems like it wasn’t adequate for her.
He exonerates her one to three times and tries to let it go to move on
As we know it’s always easy for the folks to say this forgive and forget.
Even though he never sinned her.
His dreams were turned into nightmares
Because he was thinking with her nothing is impossible and unreachable
He was a grounded man, mollified man
Sometimes love could stem the stalwart
No matter how hard you could strive
Why’s questions kept on haunting him
Asking himself why he should bleed if she loved him?
Why should his soul laid to rest in peace if she still loved him?
Why he should rot in jail while she still on his picture?
No answers fulfilled his questions then.
He wishes he could Premont troubles from afar like hallowed prophets
He was turned to be a bitter fruit
Being a nasty taste in people's mouth
In his utterly life he certainly not loathe any soul
But he started by the male acquaintances of his hidey gorgeous queen
Hate him even his foot-path
He again forgave his drop-dead gorgeous for the fourth time
He again said life must goes on and head for success
Sometimes it’s hard to bury the pain, but it has to be buried in peace

Skietreker reviews THE GHOSTLY ADVERSARY

2010-01-24T03:01:00.000-08:00

Skietreker reviews The Ghostly Adversary

By Richard "Skietreker" Seape

One of the most delightful and satisfying things for a young author and poet like myself is to meet one of one’s major literary heroes and role models. I grew up admiring and learning from the likes of Mr. Bolaji. I dreamt that I would meet Bolaji in particular one day; that I would also publish my own book(s). Both dreams have come true!

Reading any book of fiction penned by O Bolaji is a great pleasure. This is a man who richly deserves his many awards. But his fictional works also pose a challenge. How many of his over- dozen shattering works of fiction can we read and appreciate fully? At least recently I got to read his thriller, The ghostly adversary which is a magnificent work.

The Ghostly adversary is unequivocally an articulate, robust yet intriguing, well written novel which moves one's imagination to greater heights by keeping the reader in awe and suspense.

"In the blink of an eye" this magnificent read unfolds mysteries of a violated woman who in return finds justice and revenge in the most unusual way. The format in which it is written is profound and it gives the reader an electrifying feeling from page to page as you crave with curiosity, lost in the writer’s expertise.

The author takes you on a journey and gently depicts how a courageous woman was brutalised by men whom she knew and thereafter she swore on the heart of a stone that she would one day eventually make them pay and indeed in the end she finds justice in her own way.

Utilising the plots and tricks she had learned from her unforgettable traumatizing experience, this work echoes the fact that hell hath no fury like a woman scorned! Easily one of the most exciting books ever written by any African author.

A real thriller !
- Skietreker

Football power in Tebogo and the pantophagist

2009-12-12T02:24:00.000-08:00

By Pule Lechesa

It is always a thrill to see another Tebogo Mokoena (detective) novelette written. This new one by Omoseye Bolaji is titled Tebogo and the pantophagist (2010). From the blurb we learn:

“In Tebogo’s seventh (published) adventure, he sets out to ferret out an enigmatic gentleman in the Eastern Cape who is on the cusp of making a discovery that might shake the world. Hence Tebogo (or Solomon Takang as he’s known in this case!) immerses himself again in the teeming underworld where alcohol, drugs and shady ladies hold sway.

Tebogo is doing quite well until he makes the acquaintance of Debbie, another tantalising lady, who seemingly puts the spanner in the works…”

This story is less complicated than the others and the elements of mystery are mainly concentrated in chapters one, and nine. But here I want to emphasise the aspect of the football loving side of the author that emerges again in this new work.

Bolaji has published countless articles on soccer football over the years in newspapers and magazines all over the world. In fact he was one of the first black Africans to contribute lengthy articles on football to the British based international magazine, World Soccer. It is no surprise that sometimes his love for the sport emerges clearly in his works.

Perhaps the most vivid example of this occurs in Bolaji’s play, The subtle transgressor (2006) where one of the characters, Malome reminisces on his time in England, saying:

“You know, I will never forget that my visit to England in June 1990…it was summer then over there though of course it was winter here in South Africa…those white people, they love sports! My stay there coincided with the soccer World Cup in 1990. I never knew those whites could be so emotional! I remember when England had to win against Egypt to make to the next round. Then their defender Mark Wright scored and the whole country was thrown into ecstasy, and Wright became a hero…England got to the semi finals and with their infectious excitement I found myself supporting them. Against…ah, Belgium in the next round the match went into extra time, then David Platt won the game for England with a great volley. England needed penalties to defeat our African team, Cameroon, and then in the semi final they met Germany. I think in those days it was West Germany. Yes. Germany seemed to be winning the game, then Gary Lineker equalised for England…what joy in London at that moment! But the joy turned to tragedy when…ah, Pearce and Waddle missed penalties for England and they could not make it to the final. Imagine England winning the World Cup!”
(Page 33)

In this new work, Tebogo and the pantophagist something along these lines occurs when Tebogo meets William at a “joint” and we read:

‘This was William’s cue to launch into a lengthy speech. He said: “You are very right. I’m a teacher you know, just like you – but I’ve been teaching for many years. In the past in my youth I spent about ten years abroad, in exile (some whites call it ‘voluntary exile’ now to water it down, but those of us involved know the truth! My passion was, still is football…international football. I don’t mind telling you I am writing a book about football; it will be one of the greatest moments of my life when it is published. Sort of capsule of my lifetime love for football,”

“Which club do you support?” I said, wondering whether all this drinking was really good for me! “What club do you write about in the book?”

He stared at me as if a bit disappointed; as if I was so parochial in outlook!

“It’s not gonna be a book about partisan things like clubs,” he said. It’s going to be a book of international interest focusing on extraordinary players, skilful, creative players – those who could unhinge defences. The only thing is that I will try to bring many African players over the decades into the loop. Think of great international players like Pele, like Maradona, like Michel Platini, Ronaldinho, Glenn Hoddle, Pierre Litbarski, Bernd Schuster, Van Basten, Johan Cruyf, Beckenbauer …the all time greats.

“Then there are many African players over the decades who were fantastic. Legendary Eusebio of Portugal was actually from Africa originally, and maybe we can slot in the Zinadine Zidanes, Patrick Vieira (Arsenal great) etc. Thanks to the World Cup, the world knows about the likes of Belloumi, Rabah Madjer (Algeria), Roger Milla (Cameroon), Austin Okocha and Kanu Nwankwo (Nigeria) There are many others not so well known outside Africa; but research and documentaries from previous African Nations Cup finals show their greatness…players like Segun Odegbami, Adokiye Amesiemeka, Youssuf Fofana.

“Of course there’ll be a section about outstanding South African footballers too, like Motaung, Jomo Sono, Shoes Moshoeu, Doctor Khumalo…maybe the World Cup we are hosting (2010) will reveal potentially world class South African players who might be waiting in the wings now…”
(page 42)

There is a nice touch to this new work of Bolaji’s, as he has dedicated the book to Gloria Marobele, the young journalist who died prematurely in a car crash. The cover illustration is by Moses Sebitlo.

* Tebogo and the pantophagist will be launched on January 4 (2010) in the City of Roses

ASK TEBOGO: Is it a Mystery story?

2009-11-09T22:18:00.000-08:00

By Raphael Mokoena (QwaQwa)

Petro Schonfeld’s book titled Tebogo on the prowl (2006) is a critique of the “Tebogo Detective series” which comprises four books written by O Bolaji. A private sleuth, Tebogo Mokoena, holds sway in all the four books: Tebogo Investigates (2000), Tebogo’s spot of bother (2001), Tebogo Fails (2003), and Ask Tebogo (2004). It seems Petro does not believe there is “any mystery” in Ask Tebogo

An impressive critique, Tebogo on the prowl was praised upon publication by many. As one voracious reader told me then: “At last, you critics have an excellent work which you cannot knock, written by a perceptive white lady. Even YOU won’t be able to criticize her critique!”

But hold on! Perhaps we should not get too carried away. Petro’s critique is very good, but like all other works, it is not above criticism. Here I intend to focus on a few aspects in her new book which might raise one’s eyebrow a little. At the back of our minds we must remember the book is written by a female (and I am not being sexist here) which in some ways affect the whole critique.

Firstly she spends quite a lot of time pondering on some of the “fine gentlemen”, or otherwise in the series, Tebogo Mokoena, chiefly. She has her doubts as to whether he is a “real gentleman”; but the problem is that the critic is conceptualizing a “gentleman” as being a “perfect man”. The truth is that “gentleman” is a relative term. An international example that comes to mind is the screen version of James Bond, 007. He is impeccably dressed, suave, smooth, charming – a woman’s dream. Yet he has killed dozens of countless people, male and female, and he is also an outrageous philanderer.

And can we expect a private detective to be a “perfect gentleman” anyway? The image of a private sleuth made famous by great writers like Mickey Spillane, Peter Cheyney, Sidney Sheldon etc is largely that of a seedy, ruthless, unconscionable individual. Agatha Christie gave us the cerebral, though elderly Hercule Poirot. Bolaji’s creation, Tebogo Mokoena, is a much younger version of Poirot in the sense of being more of a “gentleman” which is a triumph in itself. A young detective who doesn’t ruffle feathers much! Smooth, cunning, conscionable. Nobody would expect such a person to be “perfect” or he would not solve any cases!

Critic Petro obviously appreciates much of the humour that runs through the Tebogo series. Thus it is strange that sometimes she singles out certain excerpts from the books, not realizing that they are actually part of the humour. An example is where she writes: “(Tebogo) pays her (Toluana, his secretary/assistant) such a good salary that he can’t afford a watch”!. It is incredible that the critic does not realize that Tebogo was actually joking with Toluana here!

Petro makes too much of Tebogo’s love for Khanyi the young lady “(In Ask Tebogo) “To one’s dismay, (Khanyi) dwindles to a nonentity in his last novelette…” she writes; but it is arguable that this is in no way the case. Tebogo’s relationship with Khanyi is already firmly established by the time of the investigation in Ask Tebogo. His initial (first flush) exhilarating, exaggerated love for her must have by now been wearing a little thin; he no longer has to refer to her every time again. She is certainly not a co-investigator with him; even in Tebogo Fails when he first meets, and falls for her, he does NOT confide in her as regards his investigation. Toluana, his “assistant” knows little about practical details of his investigations. No doubt many readers (females?) enjoyed Tebogo’s “love affair” with Khanyi in Tebogo Fails. But when critic Petro writes: “To the delight of the reader he meets Khanyi in Tebogo Fails”, the “delight” here applies to the critic in question, not “every reader”.

Indeed, respected critic Peter Moroe whilst reviewing Tebogo Fails writes almost dismissively: “The book Tebogo Fails starts – and ends – with some romantic notions which for the purposes of this review I prefer to discount”. This shows quite clearly that Tebogo’s new found love is NOT integral to, and does not really affect the plot of the story. And because Tebogo reads an essay or two of the deceased Dave in Ask Tebogo at night, critic Petro suggests this means that he has forgotten Khanyi! Of course not! The general reader would know that his love for Khanyi is now firmly established and need not become a case of “gilding the lily”. Just as a man can spend nights with the partner he loves, with his professional life going on to all intents and purposes, during the day.

Petro also feels that Tebogo, if he were a “gentleman” should have told one female acquaintance about the woman he really loved. Yet there was no real relationship between Tebogo and Desire! It is clear that Tebogo was just investigating and was seeing things through to a logical conclusion whilst finding out the truth. Few mature men would even dream of telling women such things, even their own partners; and Tebogo, astute, a pragmatist to the core should not be expected to do so. Experience would have shown the average man that confiding such a thing to a female partner is looking for unnecessary trouble “foolishly putting one’s head in a pot” as renowned African author, Chinua Achebe would have put it.

Also at the end of her critique Petro unfortunately perpetrates some sort of fraud on readers by writing: “The story ends (in Ask Tebogo)…with no revealing twist. Instead Tebogo subconsciously saw the culprit enter. He was pre-occupied with Dave’s essays. He is left to reflect serenely: “We are …puppets in the hands of the creator”. This is in fact a textual and factual perversity. The critic distorts the end of Ask Tebogo here because of her preoccupation with Khanyi. What actually happens is that in his logical way, despite any sympathy for Dave, Tebogo sees the case through to the very end. When he tells the murderer near the end of the book: “Maybe you can show the (police) officer where you hid the knife…the one you first stabbed Dave with” at the correct psychological moment, prodding him to show the police where he actually hid it (the knife), Tebogo hits the nail on the head again and triumphs. For Petro to attempt to whittle this down and refer to an almost insignificant quote referred to much earlier, some 20 pages ago(!), is intellectual dishonesty. Tebogo does NOT reflect on “puppets” et al at the end of the book as Petro writes!

It might well be that author Bolaji exaggerates the good qualities of Dave, but even critic Petro admits that even if this were so, it is a convincing portrait. From the essays themselves Dave whilst alive realized only too well that he was far from perfect; but would the society not be much better for it if many more individuals strived for decency and integrity? Daily we witness or hear about horrific inhuman acts perpetrated in our society by both the old and the young. Is it not one of the writer’s duties to show that decency and ideals at grassroots’ level should be praised? I for one have no problem with a relevant work that emphasizes integrity and moves the society ahead, even at the possible price of weakening its detective appeal.

The Growth of Free State Black Writing (2009 edition)

2009-11-02T01:00:00.000-08:00

THE GROWTH OF FREE STATE BLACK WRITING (Part 8)

The latest edition of The growth of Free State Black Writing (2009) journal is out. The series has been published since 2002, and this is the eighth edition. Reproduced hereunder is the Introduction to the latest edition by its long-standing editor, Peter Moroe...

INTRODUCTION TO THE BOOK BY PETER MOROE

In September this year (2009) the Mangaung Local Municipality (MLM) in conjunction with the Bloemfontein Public Library did a remarkable thing. They orchestrated an Awards ceremony wherefore black writers in the Free State were honoured. Nor were these awards limited to “established, published” authors – virtually all recognized writers who had made their mark in the society were lauded and honoured.

Writers honoured thus included the "luminaries" like Omoseye Bolaji, Flaxman Qoopane, Thabo Mafike, Lebohang Thaisi, Pule Lechesa, Saint George Vis; others like Seleke Botsime, Richard “Skietreker” Seape, Bareng Dichabe, Raselebeli Khotseng, Jah Rose were also honoured, among others. They were all presented with special certificates; and illuminating speeches were delivered by key speakers.

It was an occasion that spoke volumes of the fact that Free State Black writing continues to thrive. This year (2009) a lot of progress continues to be made. New writers continue to emerge, others who were fairly established before, published books. Poetry in particular continues to grow by leaps and bounds.

In this wise the likes of Neo Mvubu, Richard “Skietreker” Seape, Magic Khotseng, and the exciting Tiisetso M Thiba are doing very well. Tiisetso in particular has impressed so many lovers of poetry this year, and two of his poems are published in this edition of The Growth of Free State Black Writing.

Saint George Vis made waves with the publication of Indaba with Free State writers this year. This important work follows on the early Free State Writers Talking (2002). The new book has been favourably received and two of the reviews of the work are published here. Writers interviewed in Vis’ book include Pule Lechesa, Charmaine Kolwane, Teboho Masakala, Neo Mvubu, Richard Skietreker Seape, Thabo Mafike, among others.

Young writer, Teboho Masakala has also impressed many literary observers this year, with his sudden emergence. His forte at the moment seems to be short stories – and a sample of his work is published here. Much is expected in future from this young man.

Another writer of short fiction – Maxwell Perkins Kanemanyanga (based in Bloemfontein) published his debut work this year: Enemy of the State. The book comprises some ten short stories which are enthralling in their own way. Pule Lechesa’s superb review of the new book is published here.

As for the multiple award-winning Omoseye Bolaji, another full length work was added to the many studies (books) published on his literary work, this year. The new book is called: Omoseye Bolaji: Further perspectives; edited by Julia Mooi. Because of this new book, there is hardly any need to publish the recent shorter articles on the works of Bolaji here – though one impressive article is published here (“Folksiness in Tebogo and the epithalamion”)

In conclusion let me just state that this is the EIGHTH edition of this series! We are all proud of it, and the fact that burgeoning and established writers from our beloved Province continue to make this publication worthwhile. See you next time around!
- Peter Moroe (Editor)

TOP WRITER HONOURED AGAIN

2009-09-08T07:25:00.000-07:00

Mangaung. 8th September 2009

Omoseye Bolaji has received another award – this time courtesy of the Mangaung Local Municipality (in conjunction with Words of Ink literary association) which honoured him “In recognition of Valuable Contributions to Literature in the Free State” He, and others, also received assorted gifts at the ceremony.

The occasion, which honoured selected writers, drew representatives from government, libraries, the media, multinational firms etc. Venue was the Bloemfontein Public Library in the heart of Mangaung.

Omoseye Bolaji has collected many accolades and awards for his writing prowess and role as a literary catalyst at grassroots level over the years. Recent honours include a Chieftaincy title Award, a Lifetime Achievement Award, and the Chancellor’s Medal from the University of the Free State. He has published about 25 books which include lots of riveting fiction, poetry, drama, literary criticism, biographies and general works.

Bolaji’s literary works have been liberally evaluated over the years with many authors publishing studies and critical books on his writing. Countless articles have also been published on his works, many of which appear on copious websites on the Internet. A recent book on his writing is Julia Mooi’s Omoseye Bolaji: Further Perspectives (2009)

The writers expressed gratitude to MLM and the Bloemfontein Public library for honouring them in this way. Talking about his “role models” Bolaji told the media later on that “literary icons, especially African ones” have always filled him with exhilaration and motivated him since he was a kid. “In the African context I have always greatly admired and looked up to the African literary greats,” he said. “And there are so many of them now, over the decades. I have writers like Chinua Achebe, Wole Soyinka, Cyprian Ekwensi, Ola Rotimi, Ayi Kwei Armah, Camara Laye, Ngugi wa Thiong’o, Ama Ata Aidoo, Kofi Awoonor, Es’kia Mphahlele, Peter Abrahams, Miriam Tlali, Sedar Senghor, and Dambudzo Marechera in mind.”

He added: “In more recent times the likes of Tsitsi Dangarembga, Zakes Mda, Njabulo Ndebele, Ben Okri, Yvonne Vera among others have become African literary legends too and are highly respected. It would please me no end if more and more African people from the so-called grassroots can read and relish the works of as many of these writers as possible,”

Also honoured at the occasion were writers like Pule Lechesa, Lebohang Thaisi, and Kgang Abel Motheane.

Unbridled erotic adventure turns sour

2009-07-23T04:42:00.000-07:00

FICTION

Unbridled erotic adventure turns sour!

By Maxwell Perkins Kanemanyanga

When Tichaona’s father died his family thought it wise for him to follow the footsteps of his father. Tichaona was 20 years old when his father died. He had just finished his advanced levels and wanted to continue with his studies. Now there was no one to pay for his fees, no one to look after his mother, brothers and sisters. His late father was a solider who fought in the liberation struggle and later joined the government after independence. He was well respected, so it was easy for his son to join the army as well. He always wanted to be a lawyer but now fate had other ideas.

Tichaona submitted the certified photocopies of his birth certificate and educational qualifications. After two weeks he was invited for medicals which he passed. Now it was time to go for eighteen months’ training. His mother cooked rice and chicken for him and bid him farewell. He heard many stories about this training, how people died or got injured, but he was man enough. The first three months were really hard; there was not enough time to sleep and not enough food to eat. But as time ticked by he got more and more used to the system. Things became even spicier because he met a girl that he loved very much. Pamela was not exactly beautiful but she had an appetizing body. She was pretty; smart but her most valuable asset was her backside. It was neither big nor small.

Time flew without him noticing. He only realized when it was time for pass out that it was over. Pamela was always beside him, and by the time they finished their training they had made up their minds that they were going to get married.

Meet Lieutenant Sithole who was a brave and strict solider feared and respected in the whole camp. He was a merciless man. His main weakness was ladies. He could not keep his eyes away from women. Most solders in the camp knew this and they disliked him for it. There were rumors that he had affairs with some of their wives but there was just not enough proof for it. This camp was in the middle of two cities along a highway. The highway was about 20 km away from the camp but in the middle of a forest. One day Ltd Sithole was coming from the highway when he saw a group of people along the way to the camp. It was the custom to help people because the distance from the highway to the camp was too long. Although there were many people there, it was one young lady that captured his adulterous eye.

Meanwhile Tichaona went to see his uncle and told him about Pamela; and together with the other brothers of his late father they organized the marriage of Tichaona and Pamela. Pamela was welcomed into the family. Luckily for them they were posted to the same camp and it made things easier for them. There was a war in the neighboring country and they were sending peace keepers there. Most of the senior solders were not willing to go to this peace –keeping because an unacceptable number of their colleagues died there. So the army officials selected some recruits, and some experienced solders. Tichaona was very unlucky because he was among the new recruits selected. It was too early to leave his new wife behind but there was nothing he could do. He had to oblige with the law of the nation.

Lfd Sithole made his investigations and found out that this pretty young woman he was now enamoured with was married. This did not however stop him from trying his luck. He was anxiously waiting for the perfect moment. He had been in this game for a long time and he knew what to do to win a lady! One day he was coming from the city when he saw Pamela, the lady in question, standing on the highway. He stopped the car and waited for her to come. She tried to open the back door but it was locked. He opened the front door and gestured for her to come in. Pamela came and sat beside her boss. That is what the man wanted and planned.

This was step number one. They drove off quietly because there was nothing to say. The LFT then started to ask her some questions including her name, where she came from and so on. Along the way he pretended to be concentrating too much and as he was changing his gears he touched Pamela’s hip. Pamela moved her leg further away and he apologized as if he didn’t know what he was doing. He knew it was just a matter of time…

One day the Lieutenant called her (Pamela) to his office and gave her a job to do. Pamela was still young and rather inexperienced in this game. With her husband, Tichaona away on military assignment it was very tempting to have an affair with her boss. Things were tough and she could get some favors and some cash from this man but she knew she had to play her game carefully and secretly. That was how the whole affair started. Pamela failed to bear in mind that most soldiers knew this man and his shameful reputation. It did not take them long to figure out that there was something going on here.

In this camp there was a soldier who came from the same village with Tichaona. He knew the late father of Tichaona and he treated him just like his own son. He did not like what was going on and was not going to let it go like this. After six months Tichaona was given a break to go home. Pamela was very happy to see her husband again but in her heart she felt guilty.

Tichaona knew nothing and has been waiting for this moment for a long time, excited. His neighbor was happy to see him and was going to use this chance to talk to him. He invited Tichaona to his home. When the two men were alone in the room he started his story. “Tichaona your father was my best friend. You are just like a son to me. I don’t want to see you suffer. I am going to tell you something and it is not good news. I want you to be strong and be man enough. You must hold your emotions and nerves. Your wife is cheating on you with Lft Sithole. I know this is too much for you but I had to tell you.”

Tichaona was not ready for this. He had been really excited to be home but now he wished he had never been born. He was shocked, dizzy and traumatized. Why did it have to be him? He trusted his father’s friend; he could not lie to him. When the man went to the toilet, Tichaona went outside and sat on top of a rock in front of the yard holding his head. Who could he share this bad news with? He finally decided to take the bus to the village to see his mother’s brother. Upon his arrival his uncle knew there was something terribly wrong.

Tichaona could not even put a smile on his face as he used to do. Tichaona did not waste time; he narrated the whole story to his uncle. Seeing that the young man was in pain the uncle asked him to follow him. They went to see one of his friends who knew how to punish people who run after other people’s wives. The uncle narrated the story to his friend. “So son what do you want me to do to this man your boss?”

Tichaona looked at his uncle and then said, his voice filled with anguish “I want to catch them in action.” The man disappeared into another room and came back after twenty minutes with a knife in his hand. “Take this knife, when you reach home put it somewhere in the house. When your wife comes, tell her to give it to you. By locking this knife she will be locking herself…that’s African ‘juju’ and justice for you.” Tichaona thanked the old man and they left. He didn’t waste time to take the bus back to town.

By sunset he was back home in the camp. He did what the man said he must do and the unsuspecting wife obliged, not knowing that she was “locking herself”. The following morning Tichaona told his wife that he was going to see his mother and he would come back after a week.

The two lovers had been waiting for this chance for a long time. During the same night that Tichaona left the two lovers went to their love nest. They locked themselves in each other’s arms. Within seconds they were both naked. In the next ten minutes they were in their own world. A world where Tichaona and the Lft’s own legitimate wife would never be welcome! After the session, the Lft rested a bit on top of his mistress. Then it was time to disengage. The LFt could not take his manhood out of the mistress. Both of them were necked and tied together like dogs do after intercourse. Panic gripped them but it became even worse. What could they do to fight this nightmare? Nothing! What horror!!! Nor could they call for help as they were committing adultery…
Maxwell lives in Mangaung, Free State

Indaba with Free State Writers - a review

2009-06-13T02:26:00.000-07:00

Indaba with Free State Writers

A Review by Paul Lothane

Indaba with Free State Writers (2009) which has just been published, is an exciting book, and should be praised. It is a very important work that St George Vis has put together. However looking at literature generally, and reading between the lines, one can not but harbour some forebodings.

The perceptive critic or analyst finds himself wondering: What is the relevance of literature to us as black people? Do we appreciate the efforts of our writers? Do we even remember them? What have we done to preserve their legacy? These and other questions come to mind after going through this book. Firstly, one must concede that there are some excellent interviews in the work, none more so than that of the breath-taking Kgosietsile Dinthloane. I was impressed with Mr. Lechesa’s comments too, and others had important things to say every now and then.

But what saddens me is that even among virtually all the writers there is scant praise or even acknowledgement of other writers. Out of these interviews hardly anybody mentions or discusses the literary works of poets like Job Mzamo and Lebohang Thaisi (apart from Lechesa briefly). Can it really be that their books published almost ten years ago, have inspired none of the writers? Why is it that even among the young writers their main inspiration seems to come from overseas writers?

Even much worse is the fact that none of the writers interviewed mention Gilbert Modise or Pule Lebuso, writers who were so much in love with literature when they were alive and (Modise in particular) who published many works. Both these writers are dead now and if nobody pays them tributes in the Province they hailed from, what is the future of our literature in particular? Did Modise and Lebuso inspire none of the writers over the years? White scholars and academics try to keep the legacy of such writers alive in their works; so why can’t we black people do so?

Why is it that in the European, western world, the people there continue to celebrate the achievements and varied evaluation of their own writers decades and centuries after they have passed on? (eg Emily Bronte, Shakespeare, Christie, Ellery Queen, and Smollet) . Why is it so difficult for us to follow suit? Is enough being done to promote the writings of our key black writers here?

Or – as many suspect – is it a terrible legacy of the “phd” (pull him/her down) syndrome that continues to drag we black Africans backwards? In the literary world it is clear enough to see that a double handicap afflicts most of us: we often undermine the efforts of other writers, yet we hate to have our own works criticized! Do we not realize that if we are not criticized it means we are not being read by the proper people and we are headed into oblivion? That all we have published becomes a waste of time?

All this of course is not the fault of Mr. Vis who can not be blamed for the misgivings of others (and I love the way he reproduces a quote from Gilbert Modise in the “preface”). I look at a writer like Bolaji – and it is clear that his legacy will be there for a long time. We should all learn from him. He is never afraid for his books to be dissected, evaluated, criticized and he is now one of Africa’s celebrated writers internationally. What is the point of publishing books if people are not aware of them, or they are not discussed? Indaba with Free State Writers is indeed an important work, and one hopes it will spur writers on to appreciate what literature is all about.

SHOCKER OVER FLAXMAN QOOPANE

2009-06-02T05:54:00.000-07:00

Shocker over Flaxman Qoopane

By Mphutlane wa Bofelo (Prominent poet and literary activist)

"WHEN WRITERS JOIN THE STRUGGLE AGAINST STRUGGLING WRITERS
As for the poets, do not listen to them. Do you not see them, how they wander in every valley , and utter what they do not do?"- Quran

I feel angry and disppointed, my strong faith in human beings has been shaken a bit and my cynical attitude towards the breed that calls itself , "voices of the voiceless" is bound to increase. We always rave against the exploitation of literary, visual and performing artists and point our middle-fingers at the middle-men\women who rake in millions at the expense of writers while the guys who do all the hardwork die as paupers and only receive post-humous allocades. But what happens when writers abuse the confidence that fellow writers have in them to become more shrewd, heartless and kleptomaniac middle-men?

I met the renowned Bloemfontein poet, journalist, writer and "literary activist", Flaxman Qoopane at the launch of my book “The Heart’s Interpreter” in 2007. He was a guest speaker at our event and his talk incited a long debate on kagablog about elitist and grassroots\ organic writers, good and bad poetry, etc. At the launch Qoopane introcuded himself to me as a book agent and offered to sell my books for me. Though he could not recall me, I had met Qoopane in the 90's in Bloemfontein at a writers and artists conference discussing the white paper on arts and culture, and I also had read reviews of his works in newspapers. Because of his reputation as a literary activist and the fact that his credentials includes former MK fighter,.I immediately gave him a copy each of "Remembrance and Salutation" and " The Heart's Interpreter". He requested these to be able to show to prospective book-buyers.

Trying to get in contact with Qoopane on his mobile-phone after this became a very difficult task. His phone was continously on the voicemail or it rang without him picking it up. This made me to smell a rat. So, in November 2008, when he contacted me to tell me that the Free State Library Services wanted to buy 150 copies of my book through his Qoopane Literary Services, I asked him to put this in writing. Qoopane had told me on the phone that the library will buy my book, which cost, R100.00 at R60.00 a copy and he will take 10% commission. I had sold 150 copies of "The Heart's Interpreter" to the Free State Library Services without a middle-man before. There was absolutely no need to sell through Qoopane Literary Services other than just affirm a fellow writer and poet.

As I said, Qoopane's erratic behavior had made me feel jumpy, but my faith in humanity and my compassion for the underdog prevailed. Qoopane later wrote an e-mail with the following contents:

"My name is Jacob M. Qoopane. My company is Qoopane Literary Services cc registration No: 2008/19955/23. Our principal business is publishing, selling of books and literary gallery research. Send me 150 books Remembrance And Salutations by Mphutlane Wa Bofelo. Each book will cost a price of R60.00. After selling your book I will appreciate to be given 10% of R9000.00."
Yours creative writing,
Jacob Qoopane
2591 Hillside View
Bloemfontein
9323
073 565 7783

I then informed him that there are only 120 copies and he said I should post them. I posted the books to his address and he later acknowledged receipt of the books to me and confirmed this to my Bloemfontein-based fellow poet, Serame Makhele aka Icebound, as I had included two copies of Bluesology and Bofelosophy, one for Qoopane and one for Icebound. As soon as Qoopane had received the books, he stopped calling me and his mobile phone started going on voicemail or ringing forever without anyone answering. I enquired with Icebound about the whereabout of Qoopane and expressed my fear that he could be ill. Icebound got in touch with Qoopane who indicated that he had been ill, but is feeling better. Strangely I could not get in touch with him. When I finally got hold of him in May this year Qoopane told me that he will contact me at month-end and quickly put the phone down.

On Sunday ( 31` May 2009) I contacted Qoopane on his moblile phone and he told me he will talk to me on Monday (1 June 2009). I asked him whether the library services had given him the money. He replied, " I will give you your money from my pocket tomorrow". I asked:" Does this mean they have paid you?" He answered , "No, but I will give your money from my pocket." He promised to call me on Monday to take my account numbers.

On Monday (1 June 2009). I called the Library Services to enquire if they had bought the books. A lady by the name Annemarie confirmed that the library bought 120 copies and had paid Qoopane Literary Services for it in January this year (2009)! It is two o'clock on Monday (1 June), Qoopane has not returned to me and his phone keeps sending me straight to voicemail. Still having some hope in human beings, I leave a voice message, giving him two days to give me my money before I take legal action.

But how can writers do this to each other? Is it sheer greed or the conditions of being desperate? If it is the latter, why is it so difficult to pick up a phone and say "Listen my brother, I am sorry, the times wehere hard , and I used your money and I do not have the money now. I cannot promise you when to repay you, I am just broke" Of course, the times are hard, we all know that, if a brother is that honest there is nothing you can do but understand. But this nuisance, playing hide-and-seek, I just cannot take or understand, from a (former) freedom fighter nogal. Ja, you just have to be careful when you deal with people who tell you "I was in the struggle", when the struggle is far from being over.

* The matter has since been resolved

Teboho Masakala: Destined for greatness?

2009-05-02T00:55:00.000-07:00

By Paul Lothane

Teboho Masakala, a proud Free Stater, is still only 21 years old but the literary fraternity is already drooling about him and predicting great things from him. He’s the latest whizz kid in imaginative writing.

Yet Teboho (not surprising because of his youth) has only thus far written a number of short stories, and published a few of them. But this has not stopped countless people raving about his talent and potential and praising him.

Peter Moroe, respected literary critic says: “It is understandable why there is excitement about Teboho Masakala. The truth is that imaginative writers from the grassroots are very few and thin on the ground, and are hardly encouraged anyway. Most writers just want to write poetry. But Teboho writes imaginative short stories and his potential is awesome. Really, this very young man – he is actually a ‘boy’ but one has to be politically correct these days – has the literary world at his feet. What impresses me most is that considering his youth you would expect a lot of naivety and inadequate characterization in his works, but that is not the case,”

Pule Lechesa, acknowledged as an impressive literary critic says more cautiously: “We should not go overboard about Teboho Masakala. His writing career, such as it is, has just started really. But internationally one must note for example that Uganda’s (late) great writer, John Ruganda started his career by writing and publishing short stories too, as Teboho is doing now. He should be encouraged. I understand the young man is very respectful with his feet on the ground,”

Teboho Masakala’s short stories (like The other side of love) have appeared in sundry publications and on the Internet. He is also scheduled to be published in the next edition of The growth of Free State Black Writing journal – an excellent start to his writing career.

Omoseye Bolaji, writer and literary activist who ensured that Teboho Masakala was published for the first time, says: “Sometimes I feel like Rip van Winkle - as if I have gone on too long! It’s great to see fine, fecund new writing talent emerging. Just within months, it was gratifying to see the awesome imaginative potential of very young writers like Neo Mvubu and Teboho Masakala,”

Over the decades African black literature has witnessed superb writers starting their careers with impressive short stories. Gomolemo Mokae and Es’kia Mphahlele published good short stories early in their careers. Chinua Achebe as a youngster in the University many decades ago began writing short stories which were published only much later on in book form. Literary commentators expect Teboho Masakala to write a novel (s) in due course.

“He must not be rushed,” Pule Lechesa however warns. “He (Teboho Masakala) must develop at his own pace. At the moment it’s too early to criticize his writing; all I can see so far is that he seems to love writing stories that end in tragedy and death! But I am sure I’m judging him prematurely,”

FOLKSINESS IN TEBOGO AND THE EPITHALAMION

2009-04-11T02:30:00.000-07:00

Folksiness in Tebogo and the epithalamion

By Paul Lothane

Folksiness is often defined as a combination of being informal, affable and friendly; a characteristic of “simple country life”. Most would agree that this is something traditionally associated largely with black African people concentrated in certain areas, be it townships, towns, or even cities.

Hence we are used to expressions like “he’s my brother” “my brother from another woman” “my sister” etc being used for people who are in fact just acquaintances or even strangers. Folksiness, I hope to argue briefly here, is very much evident in Omoseye Bolaji’s latest work of fiction, Tebogo and the epithalamion (2009)

The action takes place in a small town where people are very much affable and “folksy” – from the very beginning, even Tebogo himself - a stranger here, is made to feel very welcome. In the first chapter Biggie goes out of his way to come to him, talk to him, and assumes Tebogo would sit down with him and talk. Tebogo is compliant and notes:

“I suppose that’s the beauty of we black folks – we don’t consider such things as an ‘imposition’. Rather I was a bit flattered…”

A bit later on Biggie invites Tebogo to the special ceremony:

“…there are some things you get to know through the locals. For example I am going to a special occasion now and I assure you (that) if you go with me you won’t regret it...the epithalamion.”

“The what?”

Biggie grinned. “I suppose that’s the ‘white’ word that comes closest to describing it…we have special singers that churn out these songs in honour of the bride. In our Sesotho language!”
(pages 8 – 9)

But Neo, the bride to be disappears and Tebogo is easily persuaded to help with investigations. He is invited to Mike’s house where of course he’s given “snacks…cakes and juice”. Then we follow Tebogo as he goes on to talk to “suspects”, or other characters, like Aaron, Seleke Chico, and Rose.

Aaron in fact is initially hostile – with some good reason, as Tebogo directly puts him (Aaron) on the defensive. The initial ambience is that of anger and indignation:

There was a deafening silence but only for a short while, as (Aaron) said: “What’s this rubbish about? Haven’t the police harassed me enough? Who cares if that tart disappears? What’s this for (expletive) sake!”

Yet a few minutes later the same Aaron becomes very affable and loquacious:

Aaron said (to Tebogo); “Pally, sit down and have a glass of drink…” (which Tebogo does, as they go on to talk)
(Page 27)

Chico, who comes across as tough as teak and not a man prone to being friendly, plays the perfect host when Tebogo inadvertently “visits” him at the farm:

Chico stared at me. Here was a strong man! On the few occasions we had met we had hardly talked, but now he was in an expansive mood. ‘Friend” he said to me “We never (really) got acquainted. In our neck of the woods here you can’t just walk past. You must have a tot of this stuff (alcohol)”
(Page 37)

The lady, Rose who has a baby for Seleke, the man who was about to wed Neo, is also entitled to feel cheated but when Tebogo, a complete stranger calls on her uninvited she is as welcoming as anybody can be under the circumstances. In fact she is sedately relaxing and drinking Coke with her sister when Tebogo enters her salon:

With old world courtesy both ladies stood up and ‘begged’ me to sit down. “Pls sir I’m Rose” the more slender one of the ladies said. “This is my sister, my older sister, ausi Maki…”
(Page 42)

Of course if one wants to be hypercritical here, one might argue that it was only logical that Rose would have offered Tebogo some Coke to drink (which she does not). Whether this is due to slack writing by the author is neither here nor there, though.

The important thing is how a chord of folksiness on the part of the people runs through this work. There is a strong, unforced feeling of camaraderie and bonhomie – in part also typified by the many jokes, smiles and grins – in Tebogo and the epithalamion. A feel good factor is reinforced despite the mystery involved; and it is almost as if we black Africans are reclaiming our heritage in the new Millennium.
· Paul Lothane wrote the Introduction to the book, Tebogo on the prowl a study of the Tebogo Mokoena Mystery series, written by Petro Schonfeld.

Bolaji on the CREST of his creativity

2008-10-02T05:26:00.000-07:00

BOOK REVIEW

Book: THE CREST – Omoseye Bolaji honoured in Nigeria (2008)
Author: Flaxman Qoopane
Reviewer: Peter Moroe

This book details the events of a special week in the life of writer Omoseye Bolaji whilst he was honoured in Nigeria for his contributions to African black literature. After a special Book Presentation (of two of his literary works), the events culminated in the conferment of a Chieftaincy title on Bolaji. Flaxman Qoopane, a key writer himself, was invited to Nigeria to witness the events.

The author of this book, Mr Qoopane has done a good job in putting together salient pieces from the special week. He starts with a fine Introduction, and reproduces his formal Invitation to the events. He sets the stage for the Book Presentation which took place at the revered University of Ibadan . He also adds other snippets.

Also included are presentations (critiques etc) on Omoseye Bolaji’s literary work generally, and pertinently on the two books focused on: People of the Townships, and The subtle transgressor. The inclusion of these speeches and essays make this book a valuable addition to the corpus of critical work on Bolaji already available.

Also included is Bolaji’s Vote of thanks at the Book presentation itself – titled THE CREST (from which the title of this book is taken). Once again we have some insights into the shaping of Omoseye Bolaji the writer from a very young age. It is often remarked that since Bolaji is a notoriously private person, it is only once in a blue moon (mainly through interviews) that one gets glimpses into what makes him tick.

And by interviewing the man behind the company that printed the west African books of Bolaji (Kunle Bamidele) Qoopane adds a human face to what many regard as a rather amorphous and soulless business – printing and publishing. Mr. Bamidele in his own way makes literature alive and relevant by talking about books and writing generally in that region.

There is also an account of the “Chieftaincy Day” itself, intriguingly through the eyes of the protagonist himself - Omoseye Boalji. His account is brief and interesting – and personal. But despite this, it is clear that both the author of this work, Flaxman Qoopane, and Bolaji placed much more emphasis on the Book Presentation itself. This fact is important when one considers that in places like west Africa a major Chieftaincy title being conferred on an individual is the ultimate in achievement. Yet Qoopane and Bolaji stay true to their innate instinctive beliefs that the show must revolve around the books, literature itself. After all, without his contributions to African writing Omoseye Bolaji would not have garnered so many awards, or plaudits.

On the whole, Flaxman Qoopane does a good job in this new work (book) of his. Earlier in his writing career, Qoopane published books like A poet abroad (2000), Memoirs of A Cultural Activist (2001), Reneiloe-Mpho’s Story (2002), The Conference (2003) among others. His last book was City of Roses and Literary icons (2007). We welcome THE CREST, his latest book (2008)

Gcina Mhlophe struts her stuff in Bloem!

2008-09-22T02:23:00.000-07:00

By Flaxman Qoopane

Dr. Gcina Mhlophe, an award winning storyteller, poet, director, playwright and performer wowed the Free State with her considerable talents in September (2008). She was invited to do storytelling at Botlehadi Primary School in Mangaung townships.

Molaodi Matobako, co-ordinator East Region from the Mangaung Library Services had said: “In celebration of Literacy Week, the Mangaung Local Municipality jointly with the Mangaung Library Services invited the renowned storyteller Gcina Mhlophe to Bloemfontein to raise public awareness of literacy among our children by telling some of her wonderful African tales at Botshabelo Library, Wilgehof Primary School, Fitchard Park library and at Botlehadi Primary School”.

The staff and learners at Botlehadi Primary School, officials from the Free State Department of Education, the South African Police Services and the representatives from the following sponsors: Shoprite/Checkers, Vodacom, Netcare, Pelonomi Private Hospital, Maskew Miller Longman Free State could not hide their excitement at seeing Mhlope live, taking the stage! Indeed she was warmly welcomed by the audience.

She thanked the Mangaung Library Services for inviting her to the Free State to showcase her skills as a storyteller. She emphasized the importance of Literacy Week. “Ideally, it is about reading and writing in all our languages” she pointed out. She shared some of her stories with the audience.

During the occasion, Kananelo Rabele, a Grade One learner at the school read from a book Ntja ya ka (“My dog”) to her school mates in celebration of Literacy Week.

During the programme, the school choir led by teacher Ruta Moses, rendered several songs. A group of Mohobelo Cultural Group entertained the crowd with Sesotho dances. Another cultural group that took part at the event was Tshwaraganang Cultural Group. Invited guests ate and drank traditional food and African beer.

Donald Bojang, Regional Manager of the Maskew Miller Longman in the Free State said: “On behalf of Maskew Miller Longman Publishers, I have brought a box of reading books for Botlehadi Primary School ,” The books were handed over to Lucas Mlamleli, the School Principal, by Gcina Mhlophe – the lady of the moment!

The Subtle trangressor

2008-09-13T02:39:00.000-07:00

Reviewer: Peter Moroe
Play: The Subtle transgressor
Author: Omoseye Bolaji (above)
Publisher: Eselby Junior Publications (South African edition)

The Subtle transgressor is a powerful drama, shocking in some respects and with convincing (grassroots) dialogue the author is noted for. The play addresses a number of social issues in this our increasingly sophisticated world. Alas as society advances it appears the moral fibre continues to be undermined. It is a reality we have to face.

The pressures assailing the young can be clearly seen in this play – especially young ladies. They become aware of their sensuality and attractiveness to members of the opposite sex; they have their own desires and foibles; for those from rather poor backgrounds (as the protagonist Kate is) the pressures multiply even further. There are many men and “boys” out there ready to take advantage of them, realizing their vulnerability.Needless to say a young woman (note that the play focuses not only on Kate but her two close female friends too) must “take care of herself” – she needs the basics, including toiletries; nowadays many of them hanker for “airtime” “credit” for their mobile phones.

The “sugar daddies” swoop in also. It goes on and on.In this play Kate’s father Job initially comes across as a man battling against odds to “discipline” his daughter, maybe teach her some values in life. That he goes as far as stabbing her (!) smacks of some sort of desperation. In the modern world with so many rights, this could have led to punitive measures for him if Kate had for example reported the matter to the Police. But she does not.Hence we realize that there is some sort of intriguing relationship between Kate and her father Job. Other characters like the loquacious “Uncle” contribute to the particular ambience of the play. Kate certainly seems to understand her father well – a man who frowns upon his daughter’s closeness not only to “boys” but also to her best female friends.

There can be no possibility that Kate would desert her friends. Or vice versa.As characteristic of Omoseye Bolaji’s fiction it is only at the end of the play that we realize that Job has been abusing his own daughter sexually since she was a kid! This extraordinary revelation is presented quite convincingly with Job being utterly humiliated, but hardly punished for his deeds. We now realize that he is doubly guilty of abuse – not only has he stabbed her with a knife, but had abused her sexually throughout her young life.Job is the ultimate hypocrite: his trenchant outbursts - claiming he is “principled” and only out to foment discipline in his daughter assumes a very hollow ring.

He is a villain: an authentic subtle transgressor. And what about his poor abused daughter? Is it not likely that she would always feel inadequate, somewhat depressed and traumatized? Under the circumstances we can only but admire her feisty attitude and character.We live in an age where the young ones (particularly females) are subjected to terrible things. We are not only thinking of rape or domestic abuse at home, but with increased reports of “date rapes” – e.g the male “spiking” the drinks of a female to render her unconscious and then going on to rape her; sometimes with a gang rape of the hapless female taking place… it seems as society becomes more advanced women become even more vulnerable.

The subtle transgressor tries to address some of these societal problems from what one might call the “tap root” – incest perpetrated by a father on his own daughter. In other words a dysfunctional background for a young female – what prize that this traumatic experience would not follow her around even as she grows up?

Sundry Free State poets

2007-11-01T03:19:00.000-07:00

(Lechesa is author of the following books, to mention but a few, Evolution of Free State Black Literature, Four Free State Authors, and The Legacy we leave behind…)

A proliferating number of people - and I have in mind, essentially, people from the grass root; from the townships - love poetry. This elementary fact is easily confirmed by considering the incredible amount of people we know who read and write poetry, be in the mother tongue, or other mainstream languages (including English).

In this article I should like us to zero in essentially on those who have carved a niche for themselves as poets in the Free State. The late multi-faceted Gilbert Modise was an excellent poet, many believed. What made him a household name in the Free State was the bombastic and grandiloquent language he employs in his writings. He combined the literary creativity with political craftsmanship, which is a rare talent. His major work of poetry is entitled, An Eye Sore.

It has become something of a cliché to mention that when it comes to written literature Mr Omoseye Bolaji belongs to a class of his own and astonishingly has his finger in almost all the pies. He is respected for being the “self-less creative maestro that excels in all the trades he is in.” He also has a unique power to unlock the creativity in any writer that he comes across. What do we think of him as a poet, or “occasional poet” as he prefers to be called? Too often than not, he has been asked by people who love his writings: “Why don’t you write poetry, Bolaji?” It is understandable because he has published lots of books of fiction. To mention but a few - Impossible love, The ghostly adversary, Tebogo Investigates, Tebogo’s spot of bother, people of the townships, The Guillotine, etc.
“Most readers would assume I am not into poetry. But I do like poetry, and have actually published two different collections of poems, titled Snippets and Reverie.” commented Omoseye Bolaji on his poetic artistry.

But one has to admit that even though he does not see himself as one of the “specialist poets” people whose very essence seems to be synonymous with poetry itself, he is to many of us poetry lovers an excellent poet. One of the well known critics Peter Moroe once wrote: “Bolaji’s poems are not of quick fame easily understood variety; they are often condensed, distilled from African proverbs and a philosophical mind remarkably expressive in English.” I will now quote some lines from one of his much anthologised poems, THE ROAD:
“A heart rending noiseReminiscent of grating ululationsRedolent of abrasions. LesionsBanshee screechings and screamsInterspersed with persistent metallic shriekingInvoluntarily jerking the car to a halt…”
When you talk of ‘specialist poets’ the name that immediately springs to mind from Mangaung is Job Mzamo - he writes fresh poetry virtually daily, with effortless rhymes! Incidentally Mzamo’s poetic artistry is dominated by frequent outcry against the societal injustices or rather anything that frustrate him.
“Frustration got me started … I decided there and then that I will vent out my frustration on paper.” says Mzamo.
Teboho Mohanoe is one of those outstanding young poets. Mohanoe’s book is titled “Enter the night.” The literary pundits (like Omoseye Bolaji in his book, Thoughts on Free State writings) generally claim that Mohanoe is a polished versifier, reminiscent of the great Dambuzo Marechera.

This is what Job Mzamo had to write in his introductory note to Mohanoe’s poetry: “Mohanoe’s poetry is lyrically compelling… his use of metaphors, similes, comparisons, and contrasts is out of this world.. his poems bubble with imagery and fresh ideas.. pricking the imagination.. (this is) a tapestry of colourful words woven into sweet sounding poetry…”
Lebohang Thaisi used to be hailed as the whiz kid of black writing in the Mangaung townships. He started writing the poems since his school days. He got fortunate to publish his first book, Voice from Mangaung at the age of 22. One can see that when he wrote these poems Thaisi was still poetically developing at that stage and with limited confidence. This poem entitled “Thank you” reveals this lack of confidence:
I am not a poet (yet)But I love poetryI am not a poetBut I love playing with wordsI enjoy the rhythm and vibrations
Worth noting about Thaisi is his love of literature - he loves reading avidly. He is to me far and away one of the great literary activists in the province. Thaisi’s book of poems is A Voice From Mangaung. Tanki Phafoli was also lucky to get published at a very early age … but like I have said before the flip side of publishing young is immaturity, which is crystal clear in Tanki’s book. For example, so many established writers like E’skia Mphahlele when looking back at their first books they feel ashamed of themselves as they detect immaturity. Yet Phafoli’s debut poetry book, TAKE A LOOK INSIDE is promising. It is said that Leslie Sello Tlhabane is one of the outstanding poets in the Province. He has in fact published a book of poems, called RESPONSIBILITY -lyrical poems of simplicity.

The legendary Flaxman Qoopane cherishes his reputation as a poet, though he has published general books. Omoseye Bolaji refers to Flaxman as a poet “ Internationally recognized, known for his simple and moving poetry.” Bolaji’s statement is partially true, but the anthologies containing Flaxman’s poems are not easily accesible, and few know about his poems. Also worth mentioning is kgosietsile Dintlhoane who is a respected poet and former literary columnist in the Free State news. His poetry has been anthologised in national and international publications. For example, in THE HOMELESS, he empathisised with the poor of the earth. Note such lines as:
We see them- we pass themin our every day lifeLike they were monumentsThese lonely hungry ones-We see themCoughing-We pass themDyingAnd still find time to laugh-
This reminds me of one Thaisi’s poem that is written in this vein. It is entitled, Abandoned 1:
They are abandonedThrown to the streetCorners of big cities…When the nights come tous it means warmthWhen it comes itbrings anguish to them

Raselebeli “Magic” Khotseng is famous in Mangaung for his prolific poems. He is liberally
published in the local newspapers, magazines, and journals. He intends to publish a book of poems soon, having warmed his way into thousands’ hearts with poems like “The warp and weft of Celtic supporters” . Looking at the picture nationally, most lovers of poetry are familiar with Mongane Serote, Mzwake Mbuli Jeremy Cronin, new sensation Kgafela oa Magagoli and Es’kia Mphahlele etc Let us look at the accomplished African poets briefly too. Wole Soyinka, Dambudzo Marechera, Lenrie Peters-these are polished, world-class poets.There are many others Kofi Awoonori, Niyi Osundare, Ben Okri (a great, great novelist too) Jack Mapanje… these masters have influenced our local poets a great deal. On a global level, we have heard about the all-time greats-Shakespeare, Tennyson, Woodsworth, Blake, T.S Elliot, and H Lawrence. Most of Eurocentric poets are prolific that we wonder how humans could produce such tomes. And this is a lesson for we Africans, pertinently African writers. Too often we become satisfied, contended after producing certain works. We preen ourselves, reveling in at best, partial exposition of our talents. Yet, as Wole Soyinka first black African to win the Nobel Award for literature points out:
“Complacency is a dangerous thing… there is the eloquent shrug of the shoulder…. Which prevents us from reaching anywhere near our potential.’’
On the face of it many African poets have allowed complacency to ensnare them. They are still basking in the glory of their first previous, tentative poetic attempts. The advent of spoken word or slam poetry as it is commonly known has made us witness the mushrooming of poets in every society. Which is somehow good as poetry is no longer seen as a boring classroom subject. Poets are writing in a simple language that people can identify with. If you are into serious poetry you might be disappointed when listening to these poets. As we have seen, in Free State there are burgeoning poets, to mention but a few, Charmaine Kolwane, Gama Mdluli, Mosili Mohlakela, Alice Makhulu, Tikoe Moshoeshoe, Mpho Ranoha and Pulane Moiloa the granddaughter of the late seSotho literary legend J.J Moiloa. They should look forward to a long, fulfilling, accreting “Career” in writing poetry, because it is a veritable passion for them. Poetry is, without any shadow of doubt, an integral part of their beings.

They are the type of bards with the compulsion to grab a pen and paper, and start scribbling away, with gusto. I should also mention Tiisetso Makhele whose debut book of poetry has just been published by Phoenix Press- Ladybrand. Makhele is a skilful poet who started writing striking verses when he was only 16, in 1996. It was then as a teen-ager, that he made waves after garnering a CNA award for poetry. Yet for many years afterwards, he seemed to go off the boil. His book entitled , Writing on Fig Tree, illustrates the rare talent that set him apart as an erstwhile literary whizzkid. It is incongruous and extraordinary that this is his ever-published book of poetry. As he says: “Many literary pundits were quick to write me off, but this collection will answer those who might believe these are the last kicks of a dying horse!” We hope to see more of this talented poet. In this article, I have tried to outline the contribution of Free State writers at the grassroots level to mainstream poetry. Lovers of poetry across the board are welcome to send their comments!

REFERENCES
1 Thoughts on Free State writings. (Book) By Omoseye Bolaji
2 The Poetry of Lebohang Thaisi. (Article) By O Tshabalala
3 The poetry of O. Bolaji. (Article) By Peter Moroe
4 Freshness in Mohanoe’s poetry. (Article) By Omoseye Bolaji