Inzuzo is a classic poetry collection from 1943 that comprises five sections: Izabelo (Distributions), Izibongo ezingokufa nokuthwasa komnyaka (Poems about death and the beginning of the year), Izibongo ezingabafi bethu (Poems about the dead), Izibongo ngabawele iilwandle (Poems about people who have travelled overseas) and Ingqokelela (Collection). In each section, Mqhayi proved himself to be a literary writer with the ability and skill to combine the style of a traditional poet with modern poetry. This ability is most evident in the first section called Izabelo with poems that are composed in a manner that demonstrate western influence in their structure. Mqhayi’s poetry is also a storehouse of historical events as depicted in poems such Umnyaka omtsha, 1915 (New Year 1915), Aa! Zweliyazuza! (Hail Great Britain on whom the sun never sets!), and Umfikazi u Charlotte Manyhi Maxeke, a tribute to Charlotte Manyhi Maxeke. In these poems, his masterful style as a praise poet is distinct. The poems contained in the book portray Mqhayi as a religious poet, social poet, and poet of the people who took a keen interest in the welfare of his people and embraced African culture. Known as the father of isi Xhosa contemporary and traditional poetry, Mqhayi was a well-known imbongi (praise poet) who was revered as Imbongi ye Sizwe Jikelele (National Poet).
About the author
UAthambile Masola ngumhlohli kwi Sebe le Historical Studies kwi Yunivesithi yase Kapa.
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