Celebrated South African writer, Es’kia Mphahlele, has been laid to rest at his hometown in Lebowakgomo. It was a somber yet beautiful ceremony as family, friends, and fans gathered to pay their final respects to the literary icon.
Mphahlele, fondly known as “Bra Es’kia”, passed away at the age of 88 on October 27th, 2008. He was a renowned author, educator, and activist who played a significant role in shaping South Africa’s literary landscape.
Born in Marabastad, Pretoria in 1919, Mphahlele’s journey to becoming one of South Africa’s most celebrated writers was not an easy one. As a young man, he faced numerous challenges due to the oppressive apartheid regime. However, he did not let these obstacles dampen his spirit and determination to pursue his passion for writing.
Mphahlele’s literary career began in the 1940s when he published his first short story, “The African Image”. This marked the beginning of a prolific writing career that spanned over six decades. He went on to publish numerous works, including novels, short stories, and essays, that explored themes of identity, race, and social injustice.
His most famous novel, “Down Second Avenue”, is a semi-autobiographical account of his experiences growing up in the townships of South Africa. It is a powerful and poignant portrayal of the struggles faced by black people during apartheid. The novel has been translated into several languages and is considered a classic in African literature.
Mphahlele’s contributions to the literary world did not go unnoticed. He received numerous awards and accolades, including the Order of Ikhamanga in silver, South Africa’s second-highest civilian honor, for his exceptional contribution to literature. He was also a recipient of the prestigious Order of Mapungubwe, awarded to individuals who have excelled in their respective fields and have helped to elevate the country’s image.
Apart from being a gifted writer, Mphahlele was also a dedicated educator. He believed in the power of education to transform lives and was a strong advocate for equal access to education for all. He taught at various universities, including the University of Denver in the United States, where he spent 20 years teaching African literature.
Mphahlele’s impact extended beyond the literary and academic spheres. He was a vocal activist who used his writing to speak out against the injustices of apartheid. He believed in the power of words to bring about change and inspire people to fight for freedom and equality. His writing played a significant role in raising awareness about the struggles of black people in South Africa, both locally and internationally.
As his final resting place, Lebowakgomo holds special significance for Mphahlele. It is where he spent his formative years and where he continued to draw inspiration for his writing. His love for his hometown and its people is evident in his works, which often depict the vibrant and resilient spirit of the people of Lebowakgomo.
The funeral service was a heartwarming tribute to Mphahlele’s life and legacy. Family, friends, and fans gathered to share fond memories and pay their respects to a man who had touched their lives in one way or another. Tributes poured in from all over the world, a testament to the impact that Mphahlele had on the literary community and beyond.
In his eulogy, Mphahlele’s son, Dr. Raks Seakhoa, described his father as a humble and kind man who always put others before himself. He spoke of how his father’s love for literature was contagious and how he had inspired many to pursue their passion for writing.
As the sun sets on Lebowakgomo, Mphahlele’s legacy will continue to shine bright. He has left behind a rich literary heritage that will be cherished for generations to come. His words will continue to inspire and educate, and his memory will forever be etched in the hearts of those who knew him.
In the words of Mphahlele himself, “A writer’s job is to bear witness and be the voice of those who cannot speak for themselves.” And that is precisely what he did, leaving behind a powerful and enduring legacy that will continue to speak for generations to come. Rest in
