REFILOE TENEI

It is the passion with which she writes and resides her poetry that will definitely compel you to spare an ear next time you see her bless poetry fanatics with her rich poetry. Constantly inspired by the fact no man is promised tomorrow Refiloe commonly known as Fifi amongst her friends promises to be one of the country’s powerful and passion-driven female poets. Poets Blog captured a few moments of her tight schedule and today brings you Refiloe Tenei’s profile.
Q: Can you please let us know who Refiloe Tenei is and tell us how you fell in love with poetry?
A: Well first of all I started writing poetry in 2004 while I was at high school level doing my form D, and I still remember the first piece I wrote. Otherwice Refiloe is a friendly, sociable individual.
Q: What do you mostly write about?
A: I generally write about almost any issue, topic and subject I feel I need to say something worth people’s ears. I write mostly when I am inspired either to celebrate or to deal with something bothering me. I can also write imaginary poems, that is to say maybe relate a fictional story via my poem though in a meaningful way.
Q: What is your personal definition of poetry?
A: My definition is poetry is an essence of what life should be.
Q: What keeps you motivated as a poet every single time you write?
A: My main inspiration is the fact and realization that tomorrow my heart may never be dancing to the music my lungs sings, that today I am living and someone is not which calls for me to do something noteworthy when I still can.
Q: Your top three local poets and three international poets?
A: (oh!)I am not saying this because she is my friend but Black Diamond is my number one poet, secondly it has to be Lineo Kolobe and thirdly Lyrical Bacteria. Internationally it has to be
Q: Have you thus far collaborated with any poet?
A: No, not exactly. We have been trying to do a collaboration with Black Diamond but well since we are friends (and hence play too much around each other) we end up not completing the poems.
Q: Do you think there are enough platforms for poets in the country?
A: I definitely think we do, it’s all up to us to utilize them effectively. I mean here at the National University (NUL) we have sessions as poets where we meet and share our material.
Q: Do you think there is a necessity for poetry collaborations?
A: I definitely think they are necessary and important.
Q: Your message to all those who are still hiding in their cocoons?
A: Allow me to quote from one of my poems and say “it starts from a tree that springs from the soil until ultimately its grows into a bush”. What I mean is that you cannot expect people to know about you and your poetry if you are still hiding yourself and also just because one has cracked their cocoon it does not mean that they will suddenly be known entirely by the poetry fanatics. It takes hard work, dedication and passion.

MANINI MOSEHLE

Even Angels Inhabit the Earth

One of Poetry Farm’s latest assets, known for her flat but mesmerizing voice, in this issue, we catch an interview with Manini Mosehle, and get her answering the questions that every poet has to answer in this column.

Q: First of all, who is Manini, and how do you define yourself in poetry?
A: Actually, poetry defines me! I like playing around with words. Creativity and playing around with words is my game.

Q: How would you define your poetry?
A: My poetry depends on the situation really. I’m not narrow-minded, so I write on everything.

Q: Otherwise, what is your definition of poetry?
A: A literature of motives and thoughts.

Q: When did you start writing poetry and what inspired you?
A: I started in 2003, inspired by Lebo Mashile.

Q: Since you started in 2003, what have been your experiences in poetry?
A: Well, it’s hard to get exposure, because many people are not interested in poetry.

Q: Who are your top three local poets, and international favourite?
A: Internationally it would be Lauryn Hill, and my top three local poets in random order would be, Dee, Sheila, and Lineo.

Q: Where do we see Manini 2 years from now?
A: having my own book, and known internationally!

Q: What achievements have you had in poetry?
A: Since 2004, I have won first price awards in all school competitions I have been in, since high school till tertiary, and won a trophy in one poetry competition held by UNICEF sometime back.

Q: And what would be your most outstanding performance thus far?
A: That would be the CRC 200gr8 Assortment Night (my first tertiary poetry competition), in 2008. It was phenomenal because it exposed me to my friends, both from school and home, who did know I had it in me. And hey, I won first prize (she laughs)! Again because it was God-based.

Q: What do you think of the state of poetry in the country and what do you think can be done to improve it?
A: People don’t take poetry that much into consideration, and I can guarantee that they are missing out on a whole lot. Again, the society does not have motivation for the upcoming poets and poetess’. To improve these, people should be more exposed to poetry, parents should motivate their children if they are interested in poetry. Moreover, government should be more involved, by funding poetically based functions, and some poetry institutions should be developed because the youth can be kept away from delinquency through poetry, whilst they are having fun.

Q: Last words:
A: To all people, poetry is fun, and those who know, they will agree, and those who don’t know, everything is worth a try, and for those with talent, work at your utmost ability to achieve potential… and to all Basotho, we need support!

SECHABA KEKETSI

The Verbally Possessed Lyrical Bacteria

Lesotho’s number 2 poet among the Lesotho’s top twenty poets, founder of the Letsibolo Poetry Project, Poetry Farm PRO… need we say more! He was born in Lesotho and given the name, Sechaba Keketsi, but because of his obsession with the art (poetry) he decided to give himself a name that defines his position and role in poetry. To the general public, he is known as Lyrical Bacteria, and this week, Poets’ Blog captures an exclusive interview with this phenomenal poet.

Q: Who is Sechaba and how would you define yourself in poetry?
A: A simple yet complicated person who is very much into poetry. Verbally possessed! I am a verbal graphic designer!

Q: When did you start poetry and what inspired you?
A: Back in 2001, I was given a challenge by my high school drama teacher to recite some poetry, and after my performance he was impressed by my skill and started giving me some of poems to recite. However, I hadn’t started writing then. I started writing in 2005 as Lyrical Bacteria, inspired by some local emcees like Core Wreckah, Fairo, and the whole lot. I actually started as an emcee, but my stuff was more on a poetry tip, hence I shifted to poetry.

Q: You are known to be in a lot of poetry projects, so for those who don’t know, can you tell us, which projects have you been involved in and which one is your most outstanding project?
A: My most outstanding project would be the Poets’ Paradise Male Poets Against Gender-based Violence, because of the unity seen among male poets to voice the opinions against gender-based violence, through their written poetry; and the response the project got from the media was overwhelming as well! The second project will be the Lestibolo Poetry Project (LPP), which I am working on with Ms Thokozani Motinyane. These project focuses on taking quotes from local poets putting them in one paper, and distribute them, and in that unite local poets.

Q: Being Lesotho’s number two poet in the Lesotho’s Top Twenty poets contest run last year, how did it make you feel?
A: First of all, it was humbling, because it showed that people appreciate poetry in this country, but I was saddened by the fact that some of my favourite poets were behind me. On the other hand, it gave me inspiration to continue, but continue with humility.

Q: So who would you say are your top international poets, and your top three local poets?
A: Ok, locally my top three in random order are, Ivy, Teboho Rantsoabe, and Thato Chobokoane, and internationally, we have, Mak Manaka, Napo Masheane, and Saul Williams.

Q: What do you think of the state of the state of poetry in Lesotho and what do you think can be done to enhance it?
A: It’s promising! It’s growing! To try to elevate it, I think more unity could help. The kind of unity that brings forth projects that make poetry take a forward leap in the country.

Q: What is your personal definition of poetry?
A: The reinforcing steel in me that prevents the inner complex me from crushing me down.

Q: What do you think is the role of poetry in society?
A: Let first start by saying this quote from the Tribute Magazine, it says, “a country without poetry is a country without soul”. The role of poetry to me goes beyond just about your feelings but goes to touching someone next to you, get them to think consciously and clearly. Again, poetry can serve as entertainment. Poetry is not just about sharing the serious and touching things, like abuse and stuff, but can serve as entertainment as well. Yah, those two would be the role of poetry in society according to me.

Q: Where do we see Lyrical Bacteria two years from now?
A: A very active poet in the Lesotho poetry sphere, and strong active member of the Poetry Farm.

Q: Last words…
A: Our days are like identical suitcases of all the same size. Some pack more into them than others, question is, how much can you pack yourself, when you’re not enthusiastic about what you do?

SHEILA KHALA

SHEILA KHALA
THOSE WHO HAVE WATCHED HER PERFORM WOULD SURE AGREE THAT SHEILA KHALA’S STAGE PERFORMANCE IS OVERWHELMING NOT TO FORGET THE UNIQUE AND CREATIVE RHYTHM SHE ENVELOPES HER POETRY IN. HAVING WON HERSELF A TOP TEN POSITION IN
THE LESOTHO TOP 20 POETS SHE PROMISES TO BE A POWERFUL VOICE OF THE VOICELESS THAN SHE IS ALREADY.POETS BLOG SET ASIDE ITS TIME TO BRING YOU THE PROFILE OF THIS SELF MOTIVATED AND COURAGEOUS POET. ENJOY.
Q: please let us know who Sheila is and when did she meet poetry?
A: Sheila is a 19 year old, God-fearing and calm girl. I started going public with poetry in 2007 after I emerged the winner in a poetry competition that was held by Miss PC fm 2007 in collaboration with Poetry Farm. One of the prizes was an opportunity to join Poetry Farm in some of its performances and eventually I was given membership into Poetry Farm.
Q: What is your persona definition of poetry?
A: Poetry is defining your feelings through a creative combination of carefully selected words that come from a different perspective you have about certain issues in life. It is the voice of the voiceless.
Q: Your local top three poets and international?
A: My local top three poets in random order are Liemo Monaheng, Lindelwa Xingwana and Lyrical Bacteria. Internationally I only have two, them being Napo Masheane and Tumi.
Q: What have you learned about being a member of Poetry Farm?
A: one important thing I have learned is Unity. We work as a unit because we are totally different but equally talented. All the Poetry Farm poets have their own unique brand of poetry and that in a way has shown and taught me to appreciate different poetry brands or styles as they come.
Q: who would you like to collaborate with in the local poetry sphere?
A: I really can’t say right now, I am not sure who I would choose.
Q: what are your views about the standard of poetry in the country?
A: Well I know a lot of people may not be optimistic about poetry but I generally think our poetry standard is growing. I guess it starts with poets believing in themselves and actually taking their time to perfect their art.
Q: You’re most memorable performances?
A: one of them has to be the performance I had at the Worship Explosion in 2007 where I actually got born again. The performance still lingers vividly in my mind. Other than that my other memorable performance was at Lehakoe this year when I did a piece in memory of the late Tiisetso Green (May her soul rest in peace). I managed to touch a lot of hearts with that performance and for me as a poet; touching someone emotionally like that says I was on point.
Q: with the Urban Poetry Buffet coming up next month what do you promise your fans?
A: (smiles) I never reveal but what people have to know is that I am capable and I will do my best to leave people to have something to take home, no one will leave empty handed!
Q: your goals with your poetry.
A: I want to see myself going international and most importantly being able to help younger talented poets. Other than that I sure will be doing a lot of recordings, nothing solid as yet.
Q: what do you think is the role of poetry in society?
A: it is the voice of the society, especially those who cannot speak for themselves.
Q: Your last words?
A: If you have a dream, go out for it and never look back. Most importantly remember that you have to work for your dream and don’t let anyone pull you down. Lastly always trust in God.

THE POETRY FARM FAMILY

THE POETRY FARM FAMILY
Poetry Farm has been going through a reconstruction phase and that means some of the poets you knew to belong to Poetry Farm have left and new members have been added. Currently the Poetry Farm is made up of seven talented poets namely; Pytur Mahase, Lineo Kolobe, Sheila Khala, Liemo Monaheng, Lindelwa Xingwana, Manini and Sechaba Keketsi. Below are exclusive interviews with these phenomenal poets. Enjoy.

MPOBA KNOWLEDGE MONYEKE

MPOBA KNOWLEDGE MONYEKE
He describes his poetry as the music of the heart and liberation to his emotions blended with thought. His poetic pen bleeds from critical analysis of whatever issue he writes about, wrapping his poetry in thick and warm blankets of philosophical knowledge his poetry speaks with the powerful wind that fiercely removes roofs of ignorance people live under. Poets Blog quenched its thirst with water from the well of Mpoba ‘Knowledge’ Monyeke.

Q: Who is Knowledge?
A: Knowledge is a down to earth guy and a very conscious poet.
Q: When did you fall in love with poetry?
A: Well I fell in love with poetry around 1995, but at that time I was used to reading poetry anthologies. I started writing my own poems in 2008.
Q: Why did you choose poetry out of all art forms?
A: I guess I consider myself an introvert and hence whenever I feel I need to express emotions running through my mind and heart I always find the pen and paper appropriate to act as my outlet, poetry acts as my remedy.
Q: What inspired you to start writing?
A: I was inspired by a lot of people but I guess Killer Priest takes a big share. Other than him I was inspired by one local poet I heard from Dj Bootz’s Friday show who goes by the name of Lyrical Bacteria.
Q: What is your personal definition of poetry?
A: Poetry is the music of the heart, liberation of my emotion blended with thought.
Q: What do you think is the role of poetry in society?
A: Poetry is more than just an art form, it is a convenient tool of educating the people, for instance with our Poets Paradise Male Poets Project we were able to educate the people about the negative impact and disaster caused by gender based violence.
Q: Who are your top three local poets?
A: My number one poet is ‘Makuena Ivy Mohola, secondly Senekane Ralebitso and lastly Ithabeleng Nthabane.
Q: Your top three international poets?
A: Napo Masheane, Mzwakhe Mbuli and Ntsiki Mazwai.
Q: I understand that you are based in South Africa where you are schooling, what do you think is the difference between our poetry sphere and theirs in South Africa?
A: Well honestly I have never had chance to attend a lot of poetry gigs but from the few that I have seen is that fellow South Africans give their poets more attention than one could get down here, there is more appreciation of the art form and those practicing it.
Q: Why the name Knowledge?
A: Interesting question! Well I love reading, it is my hobby so I used to read philosophy books a lot and I ended being given the name The Philosopher by Deeva but I changed my name to Knowledge, to represent a young adult trying to find all the necessary skills in life to be able to live accordingly, which just meant I am a young person or poet seeking knowledge.
Q: Have you ever performed live?
A: I have performed live only once, at Times Café.
Q: Have you ever collaborated with any poet?
A: No not really. I did suggest that to one of my fellow poets, Sechaba Keketsi but I guess due to many reasons the collaboration hasn’t seen the light of the day.
Q: Your last words?
A: appreciate your talent and utilize it accordingly for the benefit of yourself and other people at large.

LIATILE MOHALE
Her mature style in poetry makes her run afloat many of our young local poets. She has won a standing ovation in many of her performances and years she spent doing poetry an-all-so-ran, but she’s evolved with time and earned her a seat among Lesotho’s top 20 poets. We interview today Liatile Dee Mohale, teacher by profession, embracing poetry as a passion.
Q: please tell us about yourself.
A: Liatile Mohale is an artist. I am from a theatre background and that should say I am very much involved in theatre and poetry. I guess I got my love for poetry from my mother because she is also a poet.
Q: so when did you meet poetry?
A: well I am not really sure of the age but I was in secondary doing form B. It so happened that at one time I was feeling moody and hence needed a quick outlet in which to pour out my feelings so a pen and a paper came handy and so I found myself into poetry.
Q: now how would you describe your poetry?
A: WOW! That’s an interesting question. Well my poetry is but a description of myself, how I perceive things and hence I never go an extra mile to include techniques I am not into like rhyming and many more. In as much as I draw my inspiration from a number of poets I always stay real to myself.
Q: your top three local poets?
A: in random order I have Poetry Farm’s Lineo Kolobe, Mpho Sefali because unlike many poets Mpho doesn’t have the bad tendency of dwelling on complacency. Whenever she wants to do something she goes ahead and does it despite circumstances. Lastly I have Lyrical Bacteria. Unlike most of us he brings forth his poetry in the rich mother language and hence adding to our poetry sphere a different yet necessary flavor.
Q: And your international three poets?
A: As for international poets I really don’t have any specifics. I guess whichever international poet I come across and happen to love what they have to offer sort of becomes my favorite.
Q: what is your perspective about our local poetry is poetry getting enough media attention and support from the people?
A: yes we do have the support from the people although it is unfortunate that a certain section of people (part of our media) who would help us elevate our poetry try to bring us down. At one time I was saddened by an article from a local newspaper which somehow suggested that we (Basotho hip hop musicians and poets) seem to be acting as if we are Americans for in our work we somehow use English more than we use Sesotho and such a suggestion was totally out of line. I mean if a certain group of Basotho feel that famo music does it for them not all of us will be entertained by that. Our using English language in our poetry cannot suggest that we are neglecting our cultures whatsoever. If poetry is the portal and medium with which Basotho youth feel they can best express themselves then let it be so. Despite such unfortunate people the truth is the media is very supportive.
Q: have you ever collaborated with any poet?
A: oh no I haven’t and I don’t really have a particular reason why I have not, but if I were to collaborate with any poet I think it would have to be Montśo ‘Mollotsi. This is because when I started writing poetry he was there to inspire me and I would likewise inspire him.
Q: do you think we need more poetry groups in the country?
A: we don’t necessarily need more poetry groups rather what we need to do is focus on improving what’s already in existence. This is to say let us pay heed to minor things like styles of poetry and stage management our groups offer. In this manner we will be able to attain growth.
Q: Your last words?
A: my advice to every poet in the country is that let us stop sleeping on the bed of complacency. If we continue to hold on to complacency then I am worried our future as artists in general will not be that clear.

NAHA NTSUKUNYANE

NAHA NTSUKUNYANE
It is beyond the shadow of doubt that Naha Ntsukunyane is one of the local male poets who can best exhale their conscious and patriotic poetry in the wonderful Sesotho language. Careful to choose the words that build his poems Naha definitely adds a mellow jazzy laid back flavor to the poetry the Mountain Kingdom has to offer. Poets Blog braved the chilly weather to bring you the profile of this mature patriotic poet.

Q: Who is Naha Ntsukunyane?
A: well Naha Ntsukunyane is basically a Mosotho man form Linakaneng har’a Letsoai in the Thaba-Tseka district. I met poetry in 1996 inspired by my brother who was at that time into hip hop.
Q: how do you describe your poetry?
A: my poetry is nothing but my spirit, body and soul. For me to pass it on to other people it then has to be in written form.
Q: having been a decade ever since you started writing poetry do you think there are areas that still need improvement in your work?
A: Definitely. I guess what I still need to work on is ensuring that my Sesotho language is still on point. I believe that I can perfectly attain that by finding out from the elders which areas of our modern language need correction and improvement.
Q: why do you always prefer to write your poetry in your mother tongue?
A: well as I have already mentioned, I am from a place in the Thaba Tseka district where most of the people have never even set their feet in this modern schools and hence they would not comprehend poetry in English. So I write in Sesotho for them to fully comprehend my message. Lastly I prefer Sesotho because it is more interesting for me to present my poetry to tourists in the mother tongue rather than having to do it in the language they already know and master.
Q: Have you ever performed live?
A: definitely yes. First time I performed live it was at Sekekete Hotel in…..in 1999 and recently I performed at Times café at the Five Minutes To Friday show hosted by Miss P. hopefully I will be doing many more performances.
Q: who are your three favorite local poets and three international poets?
A: locally I like Pitso Ramakhula, Rumo la Koebe and the unified poet represented by all Poetry Farm members.
Q:in your opinion has poetry grown in the country?
A: it has definitely grown. Looking way back in 1996 when I started there were no shows, whether it be radio shows or live performances done for poetry as it is today. So safely one can say a great degree of growth has been recorded when it comes to poetry.
Q:do you think collaborations are necessary in poetry?
A:in Sesotho we say let’soele le beta poho and hence if through collaboration we could attain the unity which could help us improve our work, then I find them necessary.
Q:your last words?
A: I always say this gift of writing has been given to us by God, let us utilize it for our benefit



It is beyond the shadow of doubt that Naha Ntsukunyane is one of the local male poets who can best exhale their conscious and patriotic poetry in the wonderful Sesotho language. Careful to choose the words that build his poems Naha definitely adds a mellow jazzy laid back flavor to the poetry the Mountain Kingdom has to offer. Poets Blog braved the chilly weather to bring you the profile of this mature patriotic poet.

Q: Who is Naha Ntsukunyane?
A: well Naha Ntsukunyane is basically a Mosotho man form Linakaneng har’a Letsoai in the Thaba-Tseka district. I met poetry in 1996 inspired by my brother who was at that time into hip hop.
Q: how do you describe your poetry?
A: my poetry is nothing but my spirit, body and soul. For me to pass it on to other people it then has to be in written form.
Q: having been a decade ever since you started writing poetry do you think there are areas that still need improvement in your work?
A: Definitely. I guess what I still need to work on is ensuring that my Sesotho language is still on point. I believe that I can perfectly attain that by finding out from the elders which areas of our modern language need correction and improvement.
Q: why do you always prefer to write your poetry in your mother tongue?
A: well as I have already mentioned, I am from a place in the Thaba Tseka district where most of the people have never even set their feet in this modern schools and hence they would not comprehend poetry in English. So I write in Sesotho for them to fully comprehend my message. Lastly I prefer Sesotho because it is more interesting for me to present my poetry to tourists in the mother tongue rather than having to do it in the language they already know and master.
Q: Have you ever performed live?
A: definitely yes. First time I performed live it was at Sekekete Hotel in…..in 1999 and recently I performed at Times café at the Five Minutes To Friday show hosted by Miss P. hopefully I will be doing many more performances.
Q: who are your three favorite local poets and three international poets?
A: locally I like Pitso Ramakhula, Rumo la Koebe and the unified poet represented by all Poetry Farm members.
Q:in your opinion has poetry grown in the country?
A: it has definitely grown. Looking way back in 1996 when I started there were no shows, whether it be radio shows or live performances done for poetry as it is today. So safely one can say a great degree of growth has been recorded when it comes to poetry.
Q:do you think collaborations are necessary in poetry?
A:in Sesotho we say let’soele le beta poho and hence if through collaboration we could attain the unity which could help us improve our work, then I find them necessary.
Q:your last words?
A: I always say this gift of writing has been given to us by God, let us utilize it for our benefit

T'SOLO "BLACK CANDLE" MAT'SABA

Hope for Africa rises from the Mountain Kingdom

Poetry Farm’s Urban Poetry Buffet in June last year, saw many new poets and artists come to surface. Among the many phenomenal poets of the night was one Tšolo Matšaba, who did one poem raising some political awakening from the audience. Today he is more than just a poet who made it to the Poetry Buffet stage, but is a resident poet on Miss P’s Unplugged on Ultimate FM. Poets’ Blog stole a moment with this poet to find out more about him.

Q: Who is Tšolo Matšaba, and how do you define yourself in poetry?
A: I go by the name, Black Candle, just a new kid on the trying to make it to the best! Where I wanna go, I don’t know, but I wanna achieve something that many people haven’t achieved yet.

Q: Can you say more about, Black Candle? Actually what does the name mean?
A: Black represents Africa – the darkness; the candle represents hope, hence that is to say, I’m going to be the hope of Africa.

Q: When did start writing poetry, and what inspired you?
A: I started in 1998, inspired by Mzwakhe Mbuli.

Q: Have you ever performed live before, and if yes, which is most memorable performance and why?
A: Yah, I have performed live before, and the most memorable performance should be the the Poetry Farm’s Urban Poetry Buffet, in June last year, since

Q: What have been your experiences since you started poetry?
A: I’ve since learned that, not everyone can be a poet – it takes creativity! Even though there is poetry in everyone of us, to express it is difficult!

Q: Who are your international top poet(s) and your local top three local poets?
A: International would be, Sean Williams, and my local top three, in hierarchical order would be, Mpho Sefali, Black Diamond, and Drizzle.

Q: So, what is your personal definition of poetry?
A: Poetry is the Cinderella of all arts, since in it there everything!

Q: What do you think of the state of poetry in the country and what do you think can be done to enhance it?
A: We need sponsors, and once we get these, even those in the dark will come out, and at the same time avoid exploitation of poets, which happens usually when poets go to shows, perform, and come back empty handed!

Q: So where do we see Black candle two to three years from now?
A: Like I said earlier, I don’t know where it’s taking me, but I’m enjoying it. So, I don’t know where I will be two years from now, but I definitely am moving along!

Q: Last words…
A: Let’s just work together as a unit, and we’ll reach our horizon.

[ADTED FROM WEEKLY MAIL POETS BLOG]

Ithabeleng "Black Diamond" Nthabane

Ever since female poets made their presence in the local poetry sphere felt with the likes of Poetry Farm’s Lineo Kolobe being on the front line more talented and creative female poets have come through to exhale to the poetry community what their hearts and creativity possess. In this issue Poets Blog brings you the love story between Black Diamond and poetry.

Q: Tell us about Black Diamond and when you started poetry?
A: Black Diamond is basically Ithabeleng Nthabane, an individual who got into poetry somewhere between 2002 and 2003 but did not go public with it until 2005 when I was invited to the Ultimate fm invited by Deeva.

Q: What actually attracted you to poetry?
A: I can’t really say what attracted me but what I know is that I had always liked poetry I was rather inspired to start writing poetry by Lineo Kolobe. We were in the same school with her and this other time she did a very fabulous performance so that is when I realized I could also make it as a poet.

Q: Having mentioned that you were inspired by Lineo Kolobe, who is your top three local poets and your favorite poets?
A: Internationally it has to be Lebo Mashile (not saying she is the only one I know) and locally I rather have four, namely; Swagger, Lineo Kolobe, Lyrical Bacteria and Refiloe.

Q: So, how do you choose to define poetry?
A: For me poetry is a spiritual gift, something you are born into and that you can use as therapy or remedy to a certain state of mind. You utilize it in moments of great sadness and even when you are happy, which ever state of mind you are into.

Q: What keeps you inspired as a poet?
A: Life. It is the experiences I go through in life that keep me going and keep my pen in constant movement.

Q: Has Black Diamond performed her poetry live?
A: Yes I have a number of times. At the Poetry Farm Poetry Buffet last year in June, at the Z-Digi’s mix tape launch in May and well at the Ultimate fm on Miss P’ poetry corner.

Q: Do you think you have grown poetically, as in content wise?
A: I have definitely grown. Back then when I started I was really immature you know I wrote mostly about fantasies but later on when growing I realized that there are more meaningful issues worth writing about and especially women issues although not saying I am a feminist.

Q: Who would you like to collaborate with and why?
A: I am planning to collaborate with Swagger because he is one of the energetic male poets and he is replete with sheer creativity. Also with Refiloe and Lineo Kolobe because I think they are poetically given and are strong female poets. Lastly Lyrical Bacteria because I like his style especially how he constructs his poetry in vernacular, so I would like to learn a thing or two from him.

Q: So do think collaborations are necessary in poetry?
A: They are very necessary. I think it is very difficult to taste success alone, I mean we need to work with each other. We cannot ignore the talent and creativity residing in each of us, hence I think collaboration is more of a laboratory where we meet as poetic scientists and brew growth for poetry.

Q: Where do you see Black Diamond in about two years from now?
A: I see myself having explored a lot of avenues, like fusing poetry with music and having done a lot of collaborations and anything that could bring growth to art in general in the country.

[ADAPTED FROM THE WEEKLY MAIL VOL.02 NO. 41 21-27 APRIL 2009, POETS BLOG ]

Amohelang Kosene

Hear her recite and you will to be compelled to clothe yourself in attires of silence and concentration. The beauty of the poetry she exhales definitely matches her brown beautiful African body and sweet voice. Proud of her roots her performance shines with confidence. Poets Paradise this week brings you the interesting profile of this young emerging female poet.

Q: Please tell us about yourself.
A: Well, I am a Mosotho girl who was born and bred in this country. Amohelang is currently doing her second year of Law at the National University of Lesotho (NUL). I come from a family of two, my mum, who is a single parent, and I. I believe I am a friendly person naturally. Very polite, I laugh a lot so I guess that normally puts people at ease around me.

Q: What got you into poetry (what did you find special about it out of all art forms)?
A: I chose poetry because all I need is pen and paper to put down how I feel. With arts like drawings and paintings, you won’t always have the needed material. Instruments are also ok but you don’t want to be thinking about that harp or guitar you forgot at home or had to leave. As much as I also like drama, it has a lot of complexities, like expressing the writer’s view and not my own. So poetry was more like my escape route.

Q: What inspired you to start writing? (When did you start?)
A: The primary school I went to offered art in many forms so I guess I started at quite an early age, but it was just for fun and just as part of my schoolwork then until I noticed I really love writing. This I realized when I got to high school. It did not offer art but I still wrote poems, though I slowed down a bit because of other activities I took (basketball and debate), I still loved the feel of pen moving on paper. I normally get inspired by how I feel at that particular moment. Pain, bliss, confusion, love, dislike (for anything), joy, I just normally write according to how I feel about me or the next person, object or situation.

Q: What is your definition of poetry and how does it define your poetry?
A: My definition of poetry is “HOME”. This is where you feel most at ease in and within your thoughts. This is where you feel relaxed and there is no one to snatch the peace within you because you can express exactly (or rather close to) how you feel or what you think without any judgment especially if you do not show your piece to anyone. Like I said, I write according to my relevant emotions at that particular time, so poetry is home for me to say exactly what I want when I want. I could say my home in this context is rather personal and that’s how my poetry is.

Q: What were the challenges you faced during infant stage as a poet?
A: Hahaha! Well, I got rather intimidated by a lot of things. I could say the stage and my audience basically. I was always wondering whether people would understand the message I am trying to portray without any sugar-coating or intensifying of what is presented before them. So I could say the main challenge I faced was coming out of my cocoon.

Q: Where has Amohelang performed thus far?
A: Like I said, I got rather intimidated by my audience to-be; my first and only performance thus far was at the Valley Breeze(season 3) that was hosted by Poetry Farm at NUL.

Q: Who are your local top three poets and your international top three poets?
A: My local top three poets are Lineo Kolobe, Lerato Brown and Nuch. Internationally I love Lebo Mashile, Lesego Rampolokeng and Wayne Visser.

Q: Has Amohelang ever collaborated with any poet? (If so who and why did you collaborate with the said poet/if not who do you look forward to working with and why)
A: Nope, she hasn’t collaborated with any poet. I would love to work with Lineo Kolobe, she inspires me a lot. She is actually one of the people who encouraged me to audition for the Valley Breeze after she saw my other pieces, also helped me pick the one to perform that night. So if one of the best poets in Lesotho actually called my work “a master piece”, I thought to myself, “Why not?”

Q: Do you think poetry is getting the appreciation and attention it deserves in the country?
A: On some level yes, but not fully. I cannot deny the fact that it is being recognized and growing at a rather acceptable rate. I am still waiting for international competitions where the country can actually sponsor poetry and send our poets overseas like other sports. By international I do not mean South Africa, I mean, international. Then I would say poetry is getting the attention it deserves.

Q: Where do you see yourself in two years?
A: In two years? Still pursuing my studies. Having performed at more functions and being recognized as one of the growing (or mature) poets in the country.

Q: Now poetry aside, any special man in your life?
A: [smile] well….. Am I allowed not to answer that?

Q: Your last words?
A: I always say to people, “Always be yourself, there is no one who can master that profession better than you can.” If you feel you have what it takes to do or be someone, use it, because even if you are on the right track, you will get run over if you just sit there. You are the only person who thinks in your mind, therefore, you are the power and authority in your own world. Life is too short not to live it fully, and if you live it fully, you will not be scared of death because you know that you have done your part on this earth. Love your life and appreciate those who help you become a better person, but most of all, we should not forget that we stand tallest on our knees, pray as though God about to go away and you need to talk to Him ASAP. He is our brawn afterall.

Moretlo "Drizzle" Likate

Our local poetry sphere is graced with fearless poets who speak their mind right away; one such is Moretlo ‘Drizzle’ Likate. Enclosed in a shell of sheer creativity this young mature female poet exhales poetry that stems from a very critical analysis of our society. If love poems, praise poems and controversial poems tickle you, then Drizzel is the right poet to listen to. Poets Blog gathered all there is to know about her, enjoy your journey through the interview.

Q: Please tell us about yourself?
A: well Drizzel is a young mature woman who has been doing Poetry for the last four years and I just consider myself a lyricist.

Q: So when did you start writing poetry and who inspired you to be in the poetry family?
A: I started writing in 2003 back in high school. I was inspired by one Teboho Rantsoabe (one of the best poets in the country I must say), actually he introduced me to poetry and taught me everything I know about poetry. After being injected with the inspiration I wrote my first piece and lucky for Mr. Rantsoabe liked it and that was I when I started writing extensively.

Q: What is your definition of poetry?
A: Self expression.

Q: You’re top three local poets and your top three international poets?
A: I know you asked me to give my top three but please allow me to give top four, them being; Lineo Kolobe, Black Diamond, Lyrical Bacteria and Nuch . Internationally I will go for Kgafela oa Magogodi, Jill Scott and lastly Mac Manaka.

Q: In your six years as a poet do you think poetry has crown in the country?
A: Poetry has grown and it is continuing to grow although I am not sure if the direction it is taking is a desirable one. Nowadays you have so many people doing poetry and sometimes as a poet you ask yourself if all this people have poetry at their heart or they are just in it because they realize that the in the near future poetry might be one of the biggest art forms in the country which might turn out to be profitable or something around those lines.

Q: Having said poetry is growing how do you think you can fuel the success of poetry in the country?
A: I think the best thing I can do is to improve my own craft as an individual poet, in that way I will be doing my role of inspiring more poets. Doing a lot of performances will also help fuel the success of poetry in the country, because what I write about is true life stories not something out of the blue.

Q: Has Drizzel ever collaborated with any poet thus far?
A: Well I was supposed to have done a collaboration with one Lyrical Bacteria but I never saw the light of it l am not sure why but yes I have collaborated with Crystal (Malehlohonolo Ramathe) at the World AIDS day poetry session organized by Malord ‘Mefane at the then Good Times Café.

Q: Do you mind telling us where you have performed thus far if at all you have had any performance.
A: (smiles at the sound of the question!) I have definitely performed at my former high school; Advent Ville High School, at the World day AIDS day at poetry session in 2007, at the launch of family club, at the echoes in the Mountain Kingdom show also in 2007, at the launch of Z-Digi’s mix tape in 2008, and at the Mountain Kingdom Come Alive show late last year.

Q: Where do you see yourself in two years?
A: WELL I WOULDN’T LIKE TO PUT IT IN A TIME-FRAME OF TWO YEARS BUT RATHER THAT DRIZZEL IS GROWIUNG AND WILL CONTINUE TO GROW

Q: Your last words to your fellow poets?
A: DO WHAT YOU DO BECAUSE YOU LOVE IT NOT BECAUSE YOU HAVE BEEN INSPIRED BY SOMEONE TH SOME OTHER ALTERIOR MOTIVE OR SOMETHING OF A SORT. WORK ON IMPROVING YOUR MATERIAL.

[ADAPTED FROM THE WEEKLY MAIL POETS BLOG BY POETRY FARM]

Senekane "Semy" Ralebitso

Q: Who is Semy and when were you magnetized to poetry?
A: Semy is basically just a simple guy who hails from Khubetsoana was nicknamed Semy in high school. I actually fell in love with poetry by default in 2003. That is to say initially I hated poetry but was constantly bombarded by powerful serious life issues. That being the case I attempted to gain control over those emotions and issues by writing short stories but eventually found myself writing poetry.

Q: Who helped you to strengthen your knees and ligaments in poetry during your infant stage?
A: Two people helped me during that stage. The first one is Mr. sephoko Motelle who ismy reviewer and editor .He played a very pivotal role in modeling me. As a mature poet he took me through an extensive journey which introduced me to types and forms of poetry and how to effectively express myself. The second person is a fellow poet and friend of mine by the name of Chromate Bahlakoana who likewise fuelled and propelled my rocket of growth in poetry.

Q: How do you choose to define poetry?
A: For me poetry is the emotion blending with thought.

Q: Your local top three poets?
A: Wow! I wish I could you five but….. my number one poet is ‘Makuena “IVY” Mohola, number two, Ma-lord “ICE” Mefane and lastly Sechaba “LYRICAL BACTERIA” Keketsi.

Q: And your favorite international poets
A: My favorite international poets would be Mac Manaka, Fifi, Black Pearl and The coasters.

Q: According to you what is the state of poetry in Lesotho?
A: It is only now things are starting to happen in poetry and I am not even sure if people are aware as much us who are in the metropolitan vicinity are about that but generally in Maseru there is awareness about the presence of poetry in the country. I am not sure about other districts.

Q: Where has Semy performed thus far?
A: I have not really done many performances but I have at least performed at Ka-pitseng Lodge, at the ultimate f.m number of times now and at one school in ha Pita.

Q: Who have you worked with up until now and which projects have you participated in?
A: Thus far I have written extensively with Bahlakoana and Knowledge, have contributed to the WEEKLY MAIL Poets paradise and participate in the Poets Paradise Male Poets project. I have also together with two other fellow poets formed a group called Poet Alive Crew (P.A.C.). The group is made up of me, Knowledge and Bones. It is basically an entrepreneurial, inspirational and motivational poetry group. I have also contributed my poetry in the Immortal Verses project.

Q: What do you think there is to learn from the poetry sphere in our neighboring country South Africa?
A: Unity. I think their unified state has done great wonders for them hence they have been able to successfully implement poetry projects and hold successful poetry shows.

Q: Where do you see yourself in five years to come?
A: I see myself having published three poetry anthologies and also owning a publishing house which will help to uplift poetry in the country in many ways.

Q: Your last words….
A: It is time for action.

[Adapted from Poetry Farm’s Poets Blog in the WEELY MAIL NEWSPAPER, vol. 02 issue 31]

Thabelang Makhooa

Thabelang is a shy motivated and inspired person who likes spending time with people especially those in the arts field.

Thabelang started writing poetry early 2006 after he was inspired by a friend who was already a poet and from that time he felt he can have his share of this beautiful art form.

Q: What motivates to remain in this art form, what keeps you going as a poet?
A: Basically going through other poets’ material inspires me a great deal, both local and international poets. Music also contributes in inspiring me, to a certain extend it gives me the very same inspiration brought by reading other poets’ poems.

Q: Who are your local top three poets and your favorite international poets?
A: Locally it has to be Tuks, Lyrical Bacteria and Mpheng. My favorite international poets are Saul Williams, Ntsiki Mazwai and Napo Masheane.

Q: From when you started writing until present do you think poetry as an art form has grown?
A: It has massively grown and the interesting part is that there is now a greater awareness of poetry in the country and most importantly the people are showing wonderful response.

Q: Where has Thabelang performed his poetry if at all he has had any performances?
A: Well I have not really done many performances I have managed to perform at the annual academic English fairs and have been a guest poet at the poetry corner on Miss P ‘s show at the Ultimate fm.

Q: Have you attempted to collaborate with any local poets thus far and who are those?
A: No I have not done any collaboration to this present time but I am planning to do that with Mpheng and T’sepang commonly known as T.

Q: Why do you plan to collaborate with the two poets you have just mentioned?
A: Well I have come to realize that my style of writing and theirs are very similar hence I can relate and work with them more easily.

Q: How do you plan to fuel your growth as a poet?
A: I plan to read more of poetry anthologies and notes available and read novels and any intelligent writings because I believe such have the capability to put one into a useful conversation with his mind, perception and analysis therefore inspire more.

Q: Where do you see Thabelang in about three year to come?
A: Wow! Interesting question. I plan to have done more performances and secured a good name for myself in performance poetry.

Q: Any projects you have been feature on thus far?
A: Yes I have contributed to the Poets Paradise Male Poets Project hosted by WEEKLY MAIL newspaper. The theme was male poets against gender based violence.

Q: Your last words to your fellow poets?
A: To my fellow male poets especially those who are still reluctant to come out I would simply like to encourage them to come forth and defeat their negativities and low self esteems. To the poets in general I would like to quote them a very good quote by an anonymous writer which says “our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure, we ask ourselves; who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous and talented but who am I not to be”

[Adapted from Poetry Farm’s Poets Blog in the WEEKLY MAIL NEWSPAPER, vol. 2 issue 32]

Makuena Mohola

Young, Black, and Gifted

She is perhaps the youngest poet to hit Lesotho’s mainstream in as far as poetry is concerned, and making a grand entrance when she claimed her position among Lesotho’s top twenty poets, alongside some of Lesotho’s top names such as Teboho Rantsoabe, Ma-Lord Mefane, Mpho Sefali, you name them! Today Poets’ Blog brings you the story of this young lady, `Makuena Ivy Mohola, a young talent we are all proud of…

Q: Who is Ivy? And how does she relate to poetry?
A: Ivy is a 17 year old girl who tries as hard as she can to reach her goals, at her standard, and at her pace! In poetry, I am still crawling! …I’m still learning!

Q: When did you start writing your poetry? Could you say it’s an inborn thing or you grew into it?
A: Yah, you could say I grew up with it, because I have always kept a diary but basically, I was introduced to poetry in 2005. At that time I was not sure of myself, hence I came out in 2007.

Q: How many poems do you have so far?
A: I have quite a handful, but I am confident of only nine, so let me say nine!

Q: You were recently nominated as one of Lesotho’s top twenty poets, how did you feel about it?
A: It was humbling! It was humbling indeed, because I was among older people and me being the youngest showed that poetry is not just for the old and matured!

Q: Who do you look up to in the field of poetry and who would you like to collaborate with at some point in time?
A: Well, I used to look up to a lot of poets from a distance, but now I’ve had a pleasure of meeting some of them like Lyrical Bacteria and admired them, so I’d love to collaborate with him, and the likes of Lineo Kolobe, and Black Diamond. On the other hand, I’d like to see myself working with musical producers, and so far, I’ve worked with Nutz.

Q: But who are you top three local poets?
A: I must say, I was actually introduced to poetry by Thato Chobokoane… Otherwise my top three local poets in order of preference would be, Nuch, Thato Chobokoane, and since I’m new in this poetry thing, the last one would be ME…!! (she laughs)

Q: What is your definition of poetry?
A: Poetry is self-discovering. It’s classification at certain levels because at some point you put pen to paper and don’t know what to write but after writing, you discover something new…

Q: Relationship status…??
A: Hm… I have two brothers, so I choose to protect some people…!

Q: Ok. So where do you see yourself two years from now?
A: Within two years I’ll have inspired people , I’ll have definitely performed live, and since I’m not that much into writing a poetry book, in two years, I’ll still be reciting my poetry for live audiences!

Q: What do you think of the standard of poetry in the country and what do you think can be done to improve it?
A: It’s growing, and to improve it, I think people’s attitude towards poetry should change, so that they can attend poetry sessions where only poetry is shared, excluding other forms of entertainment.

Q: Your final words…
A: I’d like to shout out to all my friends – thank you for the support! And to all the poets that came before me as well, thank you, I came out because of you!


ADAPTED FROM POETRY FARM'S POETS BLOG IN THE WEEKLY MAIL NEWSPAPER, VOL. 02 ISSUE 35

Thokozane Motinyane

THOKOZANE’S PROFILE

Given her emotional recitals and the poetry that compels you to listen, you are sure to knock in her room of poetry and yet hesitate to knock your way out. With her sweet voice and the poems you can relate to without much difficulty Thokozani Motinyane definitely deserves a share of your attention. Poets’ blog went out of its way to bring you the interesting profile of this young talented poet

Brief description of Thokozane, and when she started poetry: Thokozane is a loving, caring and ever smiling person. She started poetry in 2004.

Her inspiration: she was inspired by the well known Mpho Sefali, well before Mpho published her book. They met at a fashion show where Mpho recited a few good pieces. And that’s where it started!

Her definition of Poetry: she chooses to define poetry as a tool of giving out your deeper inner feelings, which would rather be insufficient with ordinary language.

Her local top three poets: she gave four, being, Ma-lord, Mpho Sefali, Lineo Kolobe and Sechaba Keketsi.

Favorite international poet: Ntsiki Mazwai; with whom she wishes to collaborate with in future.

People who helped her with her poetry: Mpho Sefali, Lyrical Bacteria

Poetry projects she has been involved in: recorded a poem called Africa Unite for the Fana ka Lerato Fana ka Bophelo AIDS project; recorded some poems for Dj Mosh’s house album, Dreams and is working on a project called the Letsibolo Poetry Project with Lyrical Bacteria.

Her future in poetry: she would like to publish an anthology of poetry although not in the near future, but for now, she likes performances than anything hence for now she will stick to performing.

View on poets can improve their art: read more, search the net to find out about poetry in other countries and other poets

Views on the state of poetry in Lesotho: “We are getting there slowly but surely, especially with more poets coming out!”

Places where she has performed: HIV/AIDS poetry session at the Good Times café in 2007; Botswana in mid-2008 (where different poets from Africa had come together to share their art) ; has been to the Poetry Corner on the Ultimate F.M.; and recently at 2008 HIV/AIDS poetry session that was held at Maseru Club bowling ground and other places.

Message to young aspiring poets: God didn’t give the talents we have for nothing; hence we need to utilize them as poetry is a very wonderful form of art.

God bless!

Malichaba 'Churbby' Mbeka

Simple and to the point Churbby real name ‘Malichaba Mbeka has been making her way through the local poetry sphere tremendously. For her poetry is quite useless if it is never understood. For those who like simplicity and rhyming in poetry all given out in a sweet voice then Churbby is one of the female poets you should be listening to. Join Poets Blog as it finds more about this simple beautiful gifted poet

Q: Please tell us about yourself and who Churbby is in poetry.
A: well am actually a very talkative individual, I am in too many things drawing, poetry you name them all. In poetry I am just a simply poet, I try to write in a way that is readily accessible to the people because I strongly believe that poetry that is not understood is somewhat useless.

Q: When did you start writing poetry and why poetry out of all art forms?
A: Well to start with I could not do emceeing because I cannot speak English fast; hence I had problems with the delivery of lyrics in hip hop so I went for poetry which is much cheaper. I started poetry a while back while I was in primary school, it was part of our English syllabus but I guess I grew up with it till now.

Q: What do you by poetry is ‘much cheaper’?
A: I meant poetry is just diverse; you can approach it in many different ways and still be accepted as a poet. I believe that even a short story can be a poem or even a song this is why I sometimes resides songs because I believe they can be poetic at times.

Q: Who are your top three local poets and your top three international poets?
A: Locally it has to be Lineo Kolobe, Lineo Segoete, Lerato Brown and Sechaba Keketsi commonly known as Lyrical Bacteria. Internationally I like Tumi, Lebogang Mashile and Kgafela Magogodi.

Q: How can one recognize your poetry?
A: Well written down my poetry is replete with rhymes, I always use rhymes in my poems the same goes for when I am on stage although I try employ different rhythms when on stage.

Q: Where has Churbby performed thus far if at all she has performed?
A: Oh yes I have performed live, the first performance was at A. M.E. hall at a poetry session that was organized by the then Miss PC fm in June 2007, then I decided to go on radio at the Ultimate fm on Miss P ‘s poetry corner, at a pre- independence poetry session that was organized by Ma –lord ‘Ice ‘ ‘Mefane in 2007,at the Worlds AIDS DAY poetry session that was also organized by Ice also in 2007, at the pre World AIDS day poetry session at Maseru club bowling ground and my last performance was Times café at the Redds ladies night.

Q: What do you think about the standard of poetry in the country?
A: Well with no doubt poetry is growing because I have seen a lot of underground poets coming out to share what they have with the people. I mean the country’s biggest poetry group; Poetry Farm is growing massively holding successful shows repeatedly and it is now on the internet, Miss P is also about to start a poetry club so that’s how big poetry is growing.

Q: Your last words to your fellow poets?
A: Do what you do, do not try and imitate anyone. Work on improving your craft because eventually an individual poets’ growth results in growth for the entire local poetry sphere.

Malichaba 'Churbby' Mbeka

Mot'selisi "Tsidy K" Khiba

Article: A Fusion of Beauty and Brains that makes Poetry a Jewel in Modern Speech

Well, it’s the duty of Poet’s Blog to introduce to you those poets who have not been seen much in the mainstream but are surely rising there, and this week, we feature Motšelisi Khiba, otherwise known as Tsidy K, a young lady with an angelic voice, whose poetry would make you swear heaven was from her tongue; and judging by her attached poem, you will agree with us when we say, poetry is the air she breathes…

Q: Can you tell us, who is Tsidy K?
A: Hmmm… So much to say… but I’ll try to be brief. I am friendly, creative, motivated, unique individual, with many differing interests... from art to the corporate field. I’m a social person, but also enjoy spending time alone!

Q: When did you start poetry and what inspired you?
A: I started writing poetry in 2003. I was young, going through the usual puberty issues, and needed an outlet. So I started to scribble down some of my thoughts, started to compile them, and share them with some of my close friends who encouraged me to continue to write. I was basically inspired by my own personal experiences, and later through the works of other poets.

Q: How would you define your poetry? The style and the message it holds.
A: My poems are delivered in different styles, (some rhyme, and others don’t) depending on the effect, theme, or general feelings that I wish to bring out from the audience. As I said, I draw inspiration from personal experience, so most of my work carries a sense of raw emotion.

Q: So, who is your inspiration in as far as poetry is concerned and can you give us your top three poets in Lesotho?
A: I admire poets such as Sonia Sanchez, Lebo Mashile, and Napo Masheane for the creative works, with themes that range from their conception of womanhood to their opinions on society. In the country, my top three would be
1-Nuch
2-Dee
3-Ms. Brown

Q: But who do you look forward to working with and why?
A: I would like to work with Lyrical Bacteria because I like the way he constructs his poems, and infuses culture and Sesotho into them, which is something that I would like to dabble in, to vary my own style more.

Q: Have you ever performed in-front of a live audience before, and if so, where? Give us those you can remember.
A: I have only performed my poetry once so far, at Convention Centre, at the Mountain Kingdom Alive show. It was a fun experience, with a responsive audience, so it was a good platform for my first performance to rid myself of any stage fright.


Q: What is your definition of poetry?
A: Poetry is a liberal, individual form of expression!

Q: Do you think the outward appearance, such as the attire, of a poet matters when they perform in-front of a live audience?
A: To an extent yes, because what you wear can create a certain perception, can help to further illustrate what you’re going to talk about etc. but generally the focus should be on your words not what you wear!

Q: What do you think of the state of poetry in Lesotho and what do you think can be done to improve it?
A: I think that the poetry sector is growing; more poets are coming about, receiving more support, and getting more exposure. I think that as poets we should also hone our skills, and explore other ways of verbal expression, such as looking into theatre practices and principals to help with how we deliver poems, and stage presence.

Q: Where do we see Tsidy K two years from now?
A: I see myself working on my first anthology, performing for the masses, travelling the world’s stage, and making lots of money! Sorry, that’s the inner capitalist talking… (She laughs!)

Q: Final words…
A: I am an African Enigma… Afro high… dreadlock tight... braid intricate… adorned with beads... jewels of my kin!

Lineo Charlotte Segoete

Article: Tête-â-tête with the she-master of Underground Poetry

You might not have seen her perform at many functions but anytime you heard her, you should have been mesmerized by the charm in her poetry! Her poetry reflects truth, belief, and a reflection of what her inner being is or might have gone through; and her ability to freestyle poetry earns her a title of Master! The Poets’ Blog features this astounding young female poet, Ms. Lineo Charlotte Segoete, as their first feature to share her views on poetry and a glimpse into her poetry as well!


Q: Who is Lineo Segoete? And how define yourself in poetry?
A: I have no idea who I am… Lineo is reserved, open-minded, inquisitive, a blabbermouth… I don’t believe in limits, and everything else is basically just cliché! I’d like to think I have brains! And I love arts in all its forms! How do I define myself in poetry… I’d like to believe that everybody is blessed with some kind of platform of expression, and I just happen to be given WORD! I don’t necessarily call myself a poet; I’d rather call myself a writer!

Q: When did you start writing poetry and what inspired you?
A: I started in `99, when I was in Form A! I actually wanted to write rhymes at first, but that wasn’t me, and at that time, a lot was happening in my life, and I don’t believe in diaries, so I found writing poetry as a way of writing what I’m going through without putting it down in a literal sense.

Q: Why is it that we haven’t seen you in many gigs or poetry performances?
A: Poetry is very personal, and no disrespect, but many people doing it are entertainers, hence the reason you haven’t seen me at gigs is because I’m not about the hype! Poetry is personal for me, I want to be able to go on stage and touch someone, being it positively or negatively, not just make a good show!

Q: Where do we see Lineo two years from now?
A: This is what you need to know, as long as there is pen and paper, I’ll continue writing, whether I get paid for it or not, and if there’s a gig I believe in, I’ll go perform there!

Q: But have you ever performed before, and if so, where have you performed before?
A: Yeah! At Parcoffs (Bloemfontein), at the recent Fana ka Lerato Fana ka Bophelo function at Maseru Club, at Redds promotions that were held at Good Times, and at a poetry club at school!

Q: Who is your inspiration in poetry, and who are your best three local poets?
A: I look up to people like Common, Black Thought, Langston Hughes (writer), and whoever wrote the bible! My best three poets are Nuch, Drizzle, and Lyrical Bacteria!

Q: But how do you relate hip hop and poetry?
A: Like every other genre, there are different fragments of hip hop, and my ideal real hip hop is poetry on beats! Poetry is feeling! But both stem from experience, and one’s interpretation of the experiences.

Q: What do you think of the state of poetry in Lesotho and what do you think needs to be done to enhance the art?
A: People should stop stereotyping poetry in that, it’s not just written form or spoken word, but you can find poetry in music, paintings, sculptures etc. Stop confining it! You don’t always have to rhyme, but however you want to do it, do it! Stop talking and do! I for one set up a my poetry blog (lazyeye01.blogspot.com)! Props goes to people like Miss P, for introducing the Poetry Corner; Ma Lord, for the Fana ka Lerato project; and props to everyone who’s writing and doing something about it.

Q: Is there anything else about you that you’d like the people to know?
A: Food for thought: there are two aspects to a person, there’s reputation and character. Before you go and judge, forsake the ‘mask’ and look deep into a person, then you can judge!

Q: Final words…
A: Support local talent! Give yourself time to appreciate and understand hip hop! Break away the stereotype of poetry and listen! Stop judging and find beauty in everything because there is!

[adapted from Poetry Farm's Poets' Blog, in Weekly Mail, Vol.02, No.29, Jan.23-29, 2009]

The Letsibolo Poetry project

It is a priviledge for Poetry Farm to present at this point one of the most unique, indidenous poetry project, pioneered by our very own, Mr. Sechaba Lyrical Bacteria Keketsi, and the beautiful, talented, Ms. Thokozani Motinyane! Both are some of Lesotho's prominent and well talented poets!

The idea with the Letsibolo Poetry Project (LPP), is to unite poets in paper, by taking their quotes, putting them in a poster, and make the poster available to the general public, hence promoting the said poets and enhansing the spirit of poetry in general.

The Project looms up this year featuring some of Lesotho's top names in the poetry sphere, such as the parenting poets themselves, the likes of Semy, Pytur, Ivy, you name them... all in one piece!



The official launch of this prestige project will be at the Poetry Farm's Urban Poetry Buffet, which will be held in June this year! Check the space! One

Hi!

First of all, let me thank the almighty God for the opportunity he has given to us to serve him in this world with poetry! Daddy, it's an honour! And to everyone who's wondering how we made to where we are today, and are still growing stronger, and will never die, guys, the straight forward and honest truth is, it's all because of God! Poetry Farm is not just something formed out of a personal instict to be famous, but it's a calling! Word!

Now to you, our friend, since it's a word we choose over fan, thank you for visiting our blog, we hope you will find it very fruitful and you'll share your interests with us! We are truly humbled by what we have achieved thus far, and we know we wouldn't have made it here if it were not for you! Therefore, thank you very much for your support! Continue showing the love and support to others. We represent Lesotho, and are hoping to go international very soon, carrying the Lesotho brand with us, so help us God!!

We did it, and are still doing it in showbizz, introducing Inhouse Poetry Nights, Poetry festivals (Valley Breeze, Urban Poetry Buffet,...) and the likes, we went to radio and introduced the Poetry Forum on PC FM, then went to print media and introduced the Poetry Farm poetics on Varsity Breeze, and later the Poets' Blog on Weekly Mail, shoo!! ...now we are on electronic media! We started by introducing the facebook page (if you haven't seen it, go ahead and check it please) and now blogspot, and hopefully, sometime next year, we'll be launching our official website as the whole CAT Farm family! This is the track of what we have done so far, in promoting poetry, and in this blog, we shall share with you our views on poetry, our poems, some of the outstanding articles from the Poetry Farm poetics, give you some words of courage and wisdom, so on and so forth, but most importantly, we shall interact with you! And that is our prime aim! So, welcome to our blogspot!! Hope you find it interesting.