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.
Friday, October 16, 2009
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
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.
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.
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
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.
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.
Friday, August 14, 2009
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
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
Thursday, July 2, 2009
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.
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]
Monday, June 8, 2009
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.
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.
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