African and European narrative conventions in the novels of C.T. Msimang

Like many other nations, around the globe, Zulus are well known for their story telling techniques that is evident in their folktales, praises, riddles, songs and many other art forms of yesteryears. Emanating from such artistry of narrating, the Zulus have also joined forces with the other artists of the modem world in producing narratives of high quality and standard in the light of contemporary prose narratives. Ngcongwane, (1987:36) alludes to this art form as follows: Narrating is an old human activity. All of us do it - just as much as all ofus who are not crippled can walk. Such a statement by Ngcongwane confirms that even Africans are able to narrate stories, be it from a traditional or modem perspective. Sibiya, (2002:1) seems to be concurring with what is said by Ngcongwane when he states that: ... Zulus are renowned for their storytelling abilities that date back to time immemorial. 'Time immemorial' here seems to be confirming exactly what Ngcongwane refers to as 'an old human activity'. This art ofnarration is not only a thing ofthe past, but has been in existence since the ancient era to the present day. The significance of its existence is evidenced in the development and the involvement of the short stories and drama In this chapter we will illustrate the extent of development that has taken place with African writers, specifically the Zulu, being represented by Msimang in his three novels, 'Akuyiwe Emhlahlweni' (1973), 'Buzani KuMkabayi' (1982), and 'Walivuma Icala' (1996).

Author dc:creator

• Ntombela, Thamsanqa Eugene

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Khumalo, Z.L.M.

• Story telling techniques
• Narrative conventions

Licence

• https://devspace.unizulu.ac.za/bitstreams/125f8204-2fad-4329-860d-f9da77fab3dc/download