Literature
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Sol Plaatje: The unfinished light of a nation line
Solomon Tshekisho Plaatje was one of South Africa's most brilliant intellectual pioneers. Explore the lasting legacy of the legendary writer, translator, and founding leader of…
Gig Guide: The weekend is for the 12th African Women Writers’ Symposium, Mimi Mtshali to perform Khaya Lami, ICA Live Art Festival returns, Our Origin Festival 2026 and Zoë Modiga returns with When The Rain Comes
Discover South Africa's top cultural events, featuring the Our Origin Festival in the Cradle of Humankind, jazz by Mimi Mtshali, Zoë Modiga's latest music, the African Women…
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.
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…
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.
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…
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…
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…
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…
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
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
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
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
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