The Time of the Writer

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The Time of the Writer, 2024.

Reflections

The Time of the Writer festival kicked off with an electrifying start, embracing the themes of reflection, resonance, and revival. From thought-provoking discussions to soul-stirring performances, each moment is a testament to the power of words to inspire, connect, and transform. Join us as we embark on this literary journey of introspection, resonance with our shared experiences, and the revival of storytelling in all its forms.

In the opening dialogue, we delved into reflective themes, setting the stage for a thought-provoking journey. Dr. Zakes Mda's keynote address illuminated the origins of writing in Africa, enriching our understanding of our cultural heritage and intellectual legacy.

Following this enlightening discourse, Dr. Barbara Boswell captivated our attention with a reflective narrative on the trending story of the missing young Joslin Smith. She eloquently connected the dots between her immediate environment and the broader landscape of our 30-year-old democracy, urging us to peer beneath the surface and confront the realities that shape our society.

Their insights serve as beacons guiding us to introspect, question, and engage in meaningful dialogue as we navigate the complexities of our evolving democracy. Let us heed their call to action and embark on a journey of introspection and collective growth.

Resonance

"umlomo uwela umfula ugcwele"

Insert: Qhali a poet, author, and publisher speaks on the effects of colonization on the African mind

Resonance is a word that captures the essence of our journey.

This week marks a significant milestone for me as I prepare to deliver a speech to my former classmates, delving into the intricacies of my journey through film school. However, since receiving these news, I've been engulfed in a state of panic. My speech is a union of two languages, mirroring the duality of my life story and academic reflections. It's a narrative that straddles two distinct worlds, each seemingly existing in isolation. The prospect of weaving these two narratives together fills me with a sense of dread.

This week at the Time of the Writer's online festival, we also delved deep into discussions echoing the importance of decolonization, language, and cultural identity. From unraveling love stories to decolonizing minds, every conversation has been a poignant reminder of what truly matters to us. Dr. Hleze Kunju and a panel of insightful speakers sparked enlightening dialogues on the need to decolonize our minds, reclaim our languages, and challenge societal norms. Lindokuhle Mnguni's powerful statement, 'I am my language' resonates profoundly, igniting a personal journey of decolonization.

Insert: Tsosheletso Chidi bravely deconstructs language barriers, shedding light on the complexities faced by women. As the festival draws to a close, let's embrace our radicality and continue the journey of reclaiming our voices and identities.

Revival

"returning to the body"

Revival is more than just a comeback; it's a powerful reminder.

Speaking: Uhuru Phalafala

We delved into discussions about land, language, lineage, love, and loss. It was a moment in time where we reflected, set reminders, and actively engaged in a conversation that wasn't just necessary but demanded action from us, a people feeling lost. This conversation delves into the pain we experience from being deprived of the opportunity to be our truest selves. Does owning and occupying one's own land restore and ensure dignity? Can we establish the connection between our ancestors' demise and the brutality of the systems we experience today? Uhuru Phalafala presented a sonic experience that opened portals to places we haven't physically been but all remember. She read from a collection of works titled 'MINE MINE MINE,' documenting her grandfather's journey and that of the collective of black mine labourers who existed during a time of violence, much like today. She delicately reminded us that it's okay to remember, to cry, and to reconnect with our bodies to restore balance. This piece thoughtfully explores the relationship between poetry, music, and literature in its structure. She suggests that the movements signify the journey of these laborer's and the black bodies that occupied this land before us. We concluded the night with a sense of revival and a departure point, moving forward to the next chapter of undoing, shedding tears, and purging injustice.