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Valerie Mpundu
Arts Reporter
Author Takudzwa Chiwara has published his first book, “A Father’s Agony and Other stories” which has been well received by bonafide readers.
Chiwara conceived the idea during the Covid-19 pandemic lockdown but he let it mature into a script two years later, this year.
The book was published by Royalty Books. The book touches on a thread that runs through most of the stories in the collection about struggles and challenges that men or fathers often silently contend with behind the macho mask that a patriarchal society puts on them.
Somehow these men hold on to a modicum of hope. In an interview, Chiwara noted that he has always aspired to write a book adhering to the adage: “A man ought to write a book, plant a tree, and father a son.”
“I have always been an avid reader of novels my dad had a subscription to Readers Digest Condensed Books,” he said.
That exposed me to Harlan Coben, Nora Roberts, and John Grisham among other literary greats,” he said.
Chiwara says he would patiently wait for the next edition as his interest had been aroused. The subscriptions came once a year but that was enough to fuel his passion.
“I also started reading Charles Mungoshi’s novels. The author held me prisoner with his unique writing style,” he said.
“It was how he related characters that evoked me as I read his esteemed work.”
The author holds a degree and diploma in journalism obtained at NUST University and Christian College of Southern Africa respectively.
“After completing my studies, I wrote business news for a reputable news agency and later transitioned into public relations,” he said.
“Currently I am pursuing writing and farming. My next project is slated for release in the second quarter of 2025.
“My mission is to rekindle Zimbabwean’s love for reading especially among the youth.” Chiwara highlighted his book was inspired by surroundings focusing on the new normal and issues often ignored.
“The vices of teenage pregnancies, alcohol abuse, and exploitation among other social ills inspired me to write this book. I explored how these issues affect men, particularly fathers. These contemporary problems often make headlines evoking the empathy and emotions of readers.
“Due to socialisation and societal norms men often grapple with these struggles in silence.”
However, there is a need for them to speak about these issues. Other stories in the book stir emotions and reflect on everyday hardships of ordinary people.
Chiwara’s literary talent carries a voice that echoes experience. The collection carries eight stories that delve into an in-depth of life’s bittersweet complexities while portraying narratives’ unwavering resilience and determination.
Among the collection is “The Neighbours” a haunting story unpacking the dangers of alcohol, substance, and drug abuse furnished with a gush of violence and bitter regrets.
“Tambudzai” is also another tale captured within the read navigating through the life of a poor female vendor handling greedy male clients seeking to dupe her off her hard-earned money which she intends to enroll her children into school.
“The Misunderstanding”, “A Propensity for Failure”, “”The Businessman’s Treachery”, “Beyond the Avocado Tree” and “Theodore’s Father” complement this compilation of the author’s first published works.
Chiwara hopes someday he will capture readers’ minds with a literary centre all things being equal.
Online Reporter