Story by Silibaziso Dlodlo
LITERATURE enthusiasts, creatives and members of the Bulawayo Book Club gathered at the Bulawayo Art Gallery on Saturday for an engaging discussion on the acclaimed book and television series, The Polygamist, with conversations centred on culture, identity, family dynamics and social values.
The event provided a platform for participants to reflect on contemporary societal issues through the lens of literature, while examining the cultural themes and life lessons portrayed in the story.
Youth participant and National University of Science and Technology (NUST) student, Blossom Sandile Mkhwananzi said the discussion underscored the importance of parental guidance and cultural identity.
“What I learned as a young person in the discussion we had is that it is important for young people to be raised by both parents, and we looked at Sarah’s life, that sometimes rejection can make you bitter as a young person and not fit into society because of bitterness. I also learnt that as young people we should embrace our culture and know where we are coming from and where we are going and not be involved in adult conflicts that have nothing to do with us,” she said.
Creative Director at Anguni Designs, Elvis Chadzanga said the discussions highlighted the need for communities to reconnect with cultural values and openly address social challenges.
“What I learned is that our community seems to be lost when it comes to our culture. I think meeting as Zimbabweans will help us talk about things that trouble our society,” he said.
For banker Nokwandle Nkala, the story encourages introspection and personal growth.
“After watching The Polygamist, you find yourself thinking, ‘Who am I and what can I do differently?’ You even find characters where you’re like, I don’t want to be this person tomorrow — I have to do better,” she said.
Bulawayo Book Club member Vuyo Mpofu said participants explored the distinction between polygamy and promiscuity, as well as the social consequences of irresponsible relationships.
“We looked at polygamy and men who sleep around because that is different from polygamy, but sometimes we mix the two and yet they are different,” he said.
Storyteller, author and actress Nkanyiso Siziba said the discussions reaffirmed the value of authentic African storytelling.
“What I learnt from the discussions today is that there is a market for African stories and celebrating our culture because that is our niche, and at different points, nowhere else can you find the set-up that Sue Nyathi describes in her book except here in Africa,” she said.
Meanwhile, author Liberty Ndaba, popularly known as MC Mahlabayithwale, launched his debut book, Umdlewadlewane, at the Bulawayo International Convention Centre.
“This book carries our heritage, our places of origin and those we created, and poems that speak to children in primary school, secondary school, college and university, and also to the community who want to know about their places and the richness in them,” he said.
The discussions underscored the enduring power of literature and storytelling to stimulate dialogue on social issues while promoting the preservation of African identity, culture and values for future generations.
