Zimbabwe has a rich literary world that is well documented, however, it is in a need of a revival. Zimbabwean writers have stood for two things and these are freedom and independence. Through literary work, Zimbabweans have showcased their courage to write about boundless opportunities. Most of the popular Zimbabwean literature is influenced by the rich history of Zimbabwe and the crisis that the Blacks have faced. Here are five writers which will help you to discover Zimbabwean literature.
1. Yvonne VeraShe as an author has explored taboo subjects and have dealt with difficult themes like rape, inequality and incest. She is an alma mater of York University. Her literary work is known for its poetic prose. All the women characters of her novel are known for their strong character. Most of her novels revolve around the theme mentioned above and cover the time of both before and after the war of independence in the country. If you are someone who loves reading and wants to mention it as your hobby during your interviews in Government Jobs, then discussing the work of Yvonne Vera can give you an edge to discuss something interesting. Vera wanted to be known as someone who did not fear the words and she is well known for it.
2. Musaemura ZimunyaMusaemura Zimunya is one of the most important poets of Zimbabwe. The poetry work of Musaemura Zimunya revolves around the poverty and history of Zimbabwe and also, the beauty of the country. He started publishing his work even when he was in school. A few of his most popular works are Country Dawns and City Light, Nightshift and Perfect Poise. Reading his work will provide the readers with an insight into the colonialism that existed in the country. If after studying hard to clear a Sarkari Result, you are looking for a break, then Zimunya’s work can provide you with the much-needed break.
3. Dambudzo MarecheraNo exploration of Zimbabwean literature is complete without studying the work of Dambudzo Marechera. Even if he had a short career as a writer, he has produced significant work. His most famous work was The House of Hunger which was published in 1978. Adjectives used to describe his work are honest, beautiful, obscene, brutal and morally objectionable. However, this does not deny the fact that he has changed the course of Zimbabwean literature with his metaphysical work. The work of Dambudzo Marechera forces the reader to think about the life that existed then.
4. Masimba MusodzaMasimba Musodza was an avid reader even as a child and he wanted to be a writer after knowing that he is able to earn money for his livelihood by writing. It is not easy to put boundaries in the work of Masimba Musodza. His work brings a new twist to the twist of Zimbabwe. The popularity of his work has inspired popular fiction like Bram Stoker’s Dracula. Most of his work indicates that he is craving for his old nation that has transformed completely.
5. Chenjerai HoveChenjerai Hove has mastered the language of English and Shona to write poems, novels and essays. Chenjerai Hove’s work revolves around social and psychic costs. During his lifetime, he has won several awards like the Zimbabwe Literary Awards and German Africa Size. He won two awards for his book titled Bones. The book titled Bones belongs to the Zimbabwean classic literature. It is moving and powerful literature that explores the depth of human suffering while showering hope on the readers
Other popular writers that belong to the Zimbabwean literary world include Bishop Patrick Chakaipa, M.A. Hamutyinei, Stanlake Samkange and Shimmer Chinodya. Zimbabwean literature that was lost, is now going through a renaissance and it is finding its way to the global readers. If you are looking forward to knowing about the history of Zimbabwe, then the Zimbabwean literature will provide you with the gateway. Common themes that are found in Zimbabwean literature include redemption, liberation, poverty and colonial life.
Few books that one must try while exploring Zimbabwean literature include Waiting for the Rain, Garandichauya, Kusasana Kunoparira, On Trial For My Country, The Stone Virgins, House of Hunger, Herbert Wants To Come Home, Bones, and Farai’s Girls.
