Phathutshedzo Lemana's love affair with literature began at a very young age. He first started reading short stories, novels and poetry as a hobby when he was in his primary years. This unquenchable appetite for more grew with each passing day until it was imbedded deep within him. Around 2016, when he was still at high school, he started producing his own writing.
"My English teacher, Dr Eddie Nedzingahes, spotted my talent and writing skills and asked me if I had ever considered publishing my own book. That was where my writing journey began, and I have never looked back," he said.
The 22-year-old from Maebani Ha-Kutama's first book, PoetryJug, was published in 2018. His second poetry anthology, called Words of the Mute, was recently published by Vhakololo Press.
"My poetry analyses some of the day-to-day problems we come across as humans. It is a message to society, saying that no matter what you may be going through, you're not alone, because there are many other people who go through similar problems in their lives and understand what you're going through. It is being a voice for those who have a message to share with society, but are unable to deliver it. Words of the Mute carries 61 poems that soothe the heart and the soul. The book's cover is yellow, which means new relations," he said.
The young author said that he drew his inspiration to succeed from prominent people in society. "My role model is Professor Phumudzo Munyai, who is the first South African to obtain a PhD in Competition Law and become a professor in the same field. In him, I have learnt that no matter how bad one's background may be, you can achieve whatever you set your mind to. Take each and every problem encountered as a lesson, instead of a hurdle that deters your journey. My literature role model is Mr Niq Mhlongo, who is a journalist, editor, educator and an award-winning author from Soweto," Lemana said.
Words of the Mute is available on Amazon.com or it can be obtained from Lemana himself.