Zimbabwean author, Farai Mudzingwa’s debut novel, Avenues by Train, was inspired by his interest to correct the false dichotomy between modernity and African cultural expression that exists in colonial texts: ‘I wanted to explore how cultures with disrupted spirituality and culture reconcile with modernity. There is a historical context to who we are at present as a people which is erased but necessary for our grounding today.’
First Draft is our interview column, featuring authors and other prominent figures on books, reading, and writing.
Our questions are italicized.
What books or kinds of books did you read growing up?
Growing up, I read mostly children’s adventure series such as Enid Blyton’s The Famous Five and The Secret Seven. Then I discovered Richmal Crompton’s Just William and was on that series for a while. I also read comics as well, these include Whizzer & Chips, DC comics, Marvel, Archie and MAD Magazine. I also read the mandatory educational books but was never really into them.
If your life so far was a series of texts, which text (fiction or non-fiction) represents you at this moment?
When Three Sevens Clash, a collection of essays edited and published by Percy Zvomuya. This book reflects the contemplative phase I’m in at the moment...
Every year, The Republic publishes the most ambitious writing focused on Africa, from news and analysis to long-form features.
To continue reading this article, Subscribe or Register for a Free Pass.
Already a subscriber? Log in.