Over the years, South African authors have been seeing increasing recognition. Today, let’s take a tour of South African literature: the stars, events worth catching, and places to visit.
Making Waves
Though there are a great many authors who have made a mark on South Africa, some are more notable than others. From the fondly remembered, such as Olive Schreiner or Eugène Marais, to the controversial figures of Percy FitzPatrick and Deneys Reitz.
And, of course, any discussion of South African literature is incomplete without at least mentioning JM Coetzee – whether for better or worse.
These figures, among countless others, have had an inarguable impact on the shape of modern writing. It is the efforts of authors like Zanemvula “Zakes” Mda and Dalene Matthee that have so shaped today’s works.
All of these writers were as inspired by South Africa’s natural beauty as they were by the peoples that lived amongst it.
Olive Schreiner/Wikimedia Commons
Deneys Reitz in the Boer War/Wikimedia Commons
Eugène Marais/Wikimedia Commons
J. M. Coetzee/Wikimedia Commons
Where to Go
When it comes to exploring the lands that bore these artists, there are plenty of places to see. From Mda’s home in the coastlands of Qolora, to the Cederberg that raised Stephen Watson, to the wilderness of Kruger whose origins come from the very same hands that wrote Jock of the Bushveld.
For those that love a long roadtrip, you could always grab a copy of Commando, and follow along with one of Reitz’s many rides in the Boer War. While you’re at it, why not make time to visit Matthee’s much-beloved Knysna, or Prince Albert and Coetzee’s Moordenaars Karoo?
The Gate, Qolora River/Wikimedia Commons
Cederberg landscape/Wikimedia Commons
Knysna River/Wikimedia Commons
Prince Albert from above/Wikimedia Commons
Fairs & Festivals
For those less invested in exploration and more interested in the books themselves, look no further than May – a perfect opportunity to stay indoors as the weather shifts into rain and cold.
First up, we have the Franschhoek Literary Festival split between the 15th, 16th, and 17th. A vast, inclusive event, starting at 9:00 each day and rolling on through dozens of distinct workshops, speakers, and readings, it’s nothing to miss no matter the day you go.
Then, following on just a week later, Kingsmead College is hosting its 14th Annual Book Fair on the 23rd of May. Across more than 70 events between 9:30 and 17:00, visitors have plenty of opportunity to dig their teeth into all manner of books, poetry, writing, and more.
Rounding Up
As South African literature grows, it will continue to make its mark on the world. From these historical faces to those who may join them in the future, there is a lot to look forward to in the domain of the written word.
Some authors worth keeping an eye on going forwards include names like Sven Axelrad, Mia Arderne, David Ralph Viviers, and Shameez Patel Papathanasiou. Only time will tell what the future has in store.
Follow us on social media for more travel news, inspiration, and guides. You can also tag us to be featured.
TikTok | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter
ALSO READ:
Independent bookshops, galleries and creative spaces keeping Cape Town interesting
