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<i>Mogakga wa Maupaneng</i>: A Tribute to Zeke. (17 Dec. 1919–27 Oct. 2008)
Abstract
To criticize Mphahlele is to enter deeply into our African souls, the souls of the black folk.
(Masilela 1990, 7)
It is not easy to write on an iconic figure such as Es’kia Mphahlele. Indeed, as one is juggling with eulogy, memory and analysis, one is forced to excavate, sift, and consciously reflect – and these forms of writing do not fit comfortably together. It is in the nature of tributes to ask one’s self questions that not only eulogise the subject, but implore the eulogiser to reflect, if he is able, on the ethical aspect of such reflections. Such questions inform my tribute.
(Masilela 1990, 7)
It is not easy to write on an iconic figure such as Es’kia Mphahlele. Indeed, as one is juggling with eulogy, memory and analysis, one is forced to excavate, sift, and consciously reflect – and these forms of writing do not fit comfortably together. It is in the nature of tributes to ask one’s self questions that not only eulogise the subject, but implore the eulogiser to reflect, if he is able, on the ethical aspect of such reflections. Such questions inform my tribute.
