A passion for poetry

GEORGE NEWS - Thembalethu's very own poet and now also published author, Nkosinathi Menziwa (46), has always known that he can and simply has to write. "I discovered my love for writing at an early age," he told George Herald. Menziwa said his very first poem was published in a booklet printed by his primary school in Graaff-Reinet.

"When my school held a farewell for those who were going to high school, a poem I wrote was printed in the commemoration booklet."

He said he was always the pupil to stand in front of class to recite verse or other writing when department inspectors came. "The reaction I got from both teachers and fellow pupils motivated me to follow my dream. My passion for reading books by other poets and writers such as Sandile Dikeni, served as foundation and I desired to be an author like them."

Menziwa, a husband and father of three, works for the Department of Correctional Services, where he was been a prison warden for the last 14 years. He is involved in community reading for kids, and started projects like brickmaking and a community newspaper.

Menziwa reciting one of his poems at Imizamo Yethu High School.

He says the youth should know that talent is something that takes many years of practice. "I carry forward this message to the youth: whatever your ambition is, do it to the best of your ability."

The book, Lolan' Izikrweqe, (Empower yourself), is written in English and IziXhosa. "This book is about my personal pain, joy and achievements as well as stories about other people. My aim with the book is to uplift people spiritually and help them reconnect with their roots."

He hopes to promote indigenous books and literacy. "I want to encourage a vibrant culture of reading and sharing knowledge." He wishes to target upcoming writers and poets, children whose language is not English or Afrikaans, who are still largely denied enjoying books in their mother tongue.

This is his contribution to alleviate the need for more books in African languages and books that matter to Africans. It was a labour of love for Menziwa, who published the book himself through the services of Reach Publishers.

You can order a book directly from him on 063 043 4141 or online at Amazon or Smashword.

Nkosinathi Menziwa