A poet is born in Plumtree

By Faith Tevera

PLUMTREE- A 25 year old man from Plumtree, Matabeleland South has published an anthropology book titled “Who killed  grandfather?”

Kwanele Khumalo, who has a great affinity for poetry, managed to write his book within a period of three months in which he had to burn the midnight oil as he had to juggle between writing the book and his studies at the National University of Science and Technology (NUST) where he is studying journalism.

According to Khumalo the book titled ‘Who killed grandfather?’ “is a collection of poems that speak about the loss of our culture as represented  by the death of grandfather. In addition there are poems of cultural leadership, love, witchcraft, superstition as well as social life in general.”

Khumalo took to writing the book after  realising the dying embers of the poetry genre among his contemporaries.

“I discovered that many young poets of my generation are fast losing interest in realizing  their talent and I decided to revive the spirit of poetry in my generation,” he said.

Khumalo believes that in poetry is where the “heart of society is placed” meaning that poetry keeps people tangled together.

However, like in the case of  many young artists, it was not smooth sailing for Khumalo who had to battle financial obstacles to publish the book.

“Publishing a book is very difficult. Financial struggles affected and slowed down progress in terms of publishing the book.

I have the Underclass Books and Film company to thank and a friend who helped me publish my book as they generously offered  to publish it at a reasonable price,” said Khumalo.

He added that society’s  lack of a book buying culture poses a problem for writers as most people deem purchasing a book as a luxury. He said “People have a tendency of borrowing books and not buying and this culture has led to impoverishment of writers.” 

The young poet intimated that he hopes that his writings can bring healing to society and may be be adopted as a set book in school curriculum.He also has a vision to create a poetry society and association which would promote and help young poets fulfil their dreams.

“Stanley Mushava, my mentor and Mthulisi Ndlovu, a brave young man who does not drop his pen are my inspiration,” said Khumalo.

Another source of inspiration for Khumalo is his background and environment which inform his writings.

“My writings are also inspired by my background in Tshankwa, Plumtree. As I observe nature and what is happening around me, it becomes easy for me to write.”

Writing is a passion for Khumalo as he began his writing journey at the age of 18 when he featured in the writing of isiNdebele poems titled ‘Izilwane zikaMthwakazi.’ He was further encouraged to continue writing when his poem titled ‘In  praise of the Beerhall’ was published by The Standard newspaper in 2009.

For a copy of the book, Khumalo can be reached on 0777332148