A hobby that turned into a livelihood

Society Reporter

FOR Fabian Choto, reading and writing poems, which started off as a pastime, has now become a steady source of income.

Choto’s Shona collection “Wajaira” is now available on the market, where it is generating fair sales.

The Rusape-based police officer’s English collection “Wisdom and Foolishness” is also readily available in bookstores and public libraries.

Choto — who, at one time, struggled to have his work published — talked excitedly about the change in fortunes.

“It started with having my works being acquired by the Rusape public library. From there, everything began to flow as more and more bookstores acquired my books,” said the devout Christian.

The poet — who has, for the past 15 years, been a chaplain at the Rusape Central Police Station — has seen more doors being opened for him.

“I am happy to say that I am now a performing poet and master of ceremonies. These opportunities arose from my involvement with the publishing industry,” said Choto, who also contributed poems to the anthology “Essential Verses”.

Last week, the poet won the hearts of many after reciting his love poem “Mwana weVanhu” at a wedding reception.

“To be frank, I was surprised by the positive response. It was not planned. I just grabbed the microphone and started reciting the poem. The response from the audience was pleasantly surprising,” he said.

Choto also contributed poems to two other anthologies — “Dzinobva Muropa” and “Chingoma Chokwedu”.

He is currently working on “Chibwe Chitedza Changu”, a collection that is pregnant with biblical teachings, as well as words of advice and encouragement.