Tshekatsheko ya dipadi tse di kwadilweng ke M.O.M. Seboni ka boene

Abstract

The main object of this study is to evaluate and analyse Seboni's original novels so as to determine if they meet with the general requirements for biographies of high literary standard. The literary study of these works reveal, inter alia. that one of them, Rammone wa Kgalagadi is not a biography but an autobiography. A number of incidents in this novel constitute personal experiences of the author. In view of the fact that inadequate research in Setswana has been done on this subject, the importance of further study to put the entire process into proper perspective can hardly be overemphasised. The fact that Rammone wa Kgalagadi is an autobiography can only be readily observed by a thorough and mature reader. but a superficial reader can easily lose sight of this important discovery. The other three novels, viz. Kgosi Sebele II, Kgosi lsang Pilane le Molerna, Ngaka Modiri are found to be biographies. Another feature of immense importance that comes to light throughout the study of Seboni's novels is the recurrence of his highly moralistic style which at times adversely affects the coherence of his plot. The process of communication in biography is of paramount importance and the continued relationship between tile biographer and his subject cannot be ignored. This is found to be particularly true of Seboni’s biographies since all his subjects are his acquaintances. This factor. however. places him at an enormous disadvantage at times. A redeeming feature is, however, that Seboni never makes An attempt to compete for publicity with his subject and this fortunately culminates in an excellent portrayal of his characters. It becomes crystal clear that Seboni is an undisputed pioneer in Setswana biography since previously no interest was shown in this genre. It is also revealed that Seboni's application of the various forms of imagery immensely enhances the literary standard of his works. The conclusion reached is that the study of biography in Setswana is, to a large extent, still in its infancy and that Seboni has undoubtedly done A praiseworthy piece of work in uncovering this field. Indeed, this laudable endeavour of Seboni should serve AS a guiding star to prospective authors in Setswana in particular. and to African languages in general.