DEON SIMPHIWE-SKADE's BOOK IS OUT!!

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

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!

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

"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

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

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

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