Literature

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Perspective: Sol Plaatje was the righter of the wrongs of Western literature’s view of black people. Photo: Sol Plaatje Papers, Historical Papers Research Archive, University of the Witwatersrand

Mhudi’, a novel ahead of its time

Published in 1930, Sol Plaatje’s epic Mhudi challenged colonial perspectives and societal gender norms, establishing a pioneering milestone in South African and African literature.

Humanity: Sol Plaatje placed his gifts at the service of African dignity

Editorial: Why Sol Plaatje still matters

Marking 150 years since the birth of Sol Plaatje, we reflect on the enduring legacy of the pioneering author, journalist, and ANC founder whose work continues to illuminate South…

A shared truimph: The grave of Solomon Tshekisho Plaatje, whose work helped shape South Africa’s democratic and cultural vision. Photo: Deshi Ngxanga

Plaatje was never a lone genius

As South Africa marks 150 years since the birth of Solomon Tshekisho Plaatje, we remember how the pioneer's towering legacy was shaped and sustained by a supportive community.

Intellectual: No South African thinker of the 20th century has produced a body of work that matches Sol Plaatje’s in its breadth, rigour and consequence. Photos: Northern Cape Provincial Government

10 moments Plaatje changed SA forever

On his 150th birthday, a reappraisal of Solomon Tshekisho Plaatje highlights 10 pivotal moments where his pioneering journalism, activism, and intellectual work transformed South…

African scene: Visitors can expect to encounter work from galleries and emerging artists from across the continent. Photo: Supplied

Gig Guide: FNB Art Joburg 19th Edition, UKZN Instrumental Showcase, Open Book Festival

Discover this week's cultural highlights, including the 19th edition of FNB Art Joburg in Sandton, Cape Town's vibrant Open Book Festival, and a showcase of emerging jazz talent…

https://youtu.be/BfzxuvXJCC4?si=M1z7vtBHT2jrjonq

Competing Truths and the Elusive Author: Rereading the Madlanga Commission through Pirandello's Six Characters in Search of an Author

This article draws parallels between Luigi Pirandello's play, 'Six Characters in Search of an Author,' and the ongoing Madlanga Judicial Commission of Inquiry in South Africa. It…

Viral status: Bookstores dedicate entire shelves to books “As Seen on TikTok” and “TikTok sensation”. Photo: Kingsmead Book Fair

Booktok, performance and the politics of reading

In the age of BookTok, reading has evolved from a solitary pleasure into a public performance. This article delves into how social media has reshaped our relationship with books,…

How the creative works across Africa help humanise marginalised communities

Explore how contemporary African artists, writers, and filmmakers are challenging stereotypes and giving a voice to marginalised communities, fostering empathy and driving social…

Nostalgia: The fair itself carried that familiar warmth, such as readers walking slowly between stalls. Photos: Supplied

In a world built for scrolling, can book fairs still survive?

A quiet conversation at the Kingsmead Book Fair became a reflection on shrinking attention spans, digital culture and the fragile future of reading

Winning streak: A still from Sierra’s Gold. The thrilling comedy film has been on an impressive run of international film festival appearances and award wins. Photos: Supplied

Sihle-isipho Nontshokweni Shines in Sierra’s Gold, Wins Best Actress

In a triumphant comeback, Sihle-isipho Nontshokweni captivates audiences and critics alike, winning Best Actress for her raw and magnetic performance in Sierra’s Gold

Rare breed: Kabelo Sello Duiker was ahead of his time; he spoke about these issues when they were not fashionable. Photo: Supplied

K Sello Duiker, a life that refuses to fade

Twenty-one years on, the Kabelo Sello Duiker Foundation launches to return his urgent, unflinching stories to a new generation

Destination: Mervyn Sloman at the entrance of The Book Lounge. Photo:
Supplied

Mervyn Sloman: The vision behind Cape Town’s beloved Book Lounge and Open Book Festival

Seventeen years later, Mervyn Sloman reflects on The Book Lounge thriving in the digital age and building reading community through Open Book Festival

One for the books: On her first visit to the Kingsmead Book Fair, held every May in Johannesburg, the writer was surprised by the massive turnout at the event.

Finding story and soul at the Kingsmead Book Fair

A first encounter with Kingsmead Book Fair, where community and unexpected joy come together in celebration of South African literature

An explicit, ambitious debut novel that delivers on sensuality but struggles to balance story, substance and seduction

Sex, politics and very little else: A look at The Sweetest Taboo

An explicit, ambitious debut novel that delivers on sensuality but struggles to balance story, substance and seduction

Life and death matters: Author Khaya Dlanga deals with the loss of his brother and mother in Life is Like That Sometimes. Photo: Delwyn Verasamy

Khaya Dlanga: Writing his way to inner peace

Writer confronts family, grief and recovery in his most vulnerable, honest book yet