By Raphael Mokoena
Perhaps we
do not ordinarily acknowledge symbolic devices as integral to Chief O Bolaji's
writing; or perhaps this is my own impression of this new Mystery book. No
matter. Here it seems the author is sending trenchant messages intermittently,
starting from the first chapter, Bra Uriah.
At least here is a familiar message
in Bolaji's works; the reference to copious literary allusions, books etc.
Hence it is no surprise to see the haunted, beleaguered Bra Uriah delivering a
short "homily" on books, reeling off works written by the likes of
George Eliot, Gabriel Okara, and Hadley Chase.
And what about the motif of "mamugari" (handcuffs)
late on in the narrative? The culprit is rendered immobile, harmless and
hapless once the bracelets he never reckoned with are clamped on him! Hence the
killer of the young lady in question here is at last apprehended, thanks to
Tebogo.
And in the very last chapter, what do we make of the inclusion of the
"Mannequin Challenge"? Indeed it is rather strangely and awkwardly
brought in. Note that the "Challenge", with its frozen, statuesque
implications, presages all the action in this work also abruptly drawing to a
close.
Tebogo the sleuth has triumphed - but there is no triumphalism
here...(reminds one of a bit of the much earlier Tebogo Fails ). We feel at the end
here - coerced as it were - a combination of weariness, languor and ennui,
which might be symptomatic of the author himself.
-------------------
* This book is published by Eselby Jnr Publications of South Africa. The work is dedicated to Richard "Skietreker", and Obafemi Fasanmi.
-------------------
* This book is published by Eselby Jnr Publications of South Africa. The work is dedicated to Richard "Skietreker", and Obafemi Fasanmi.
Interesting and terse - the last part here, I remember you somewhat emphasized in your comments on the book on goodreads. Always refreshing to read what you write on books etc
ReplyDeleteInteresting, as Mr Ozogula says
ReplyDeleteYou have a point as regards symbolism...for example Ayi Armah uses terrible filth, dirt, corruption etc to point out many things wrong with Africa. Achebe is excellent too...and perhaps river, water in Ngugi's case
ReplyDeleteIt is a pleasure to read, and savour Mr Mokoena's book reviews, literary perspectives and overviews. Bravo.
ReplyDeleteThe 9th Tebogo adventure story! Well done Mr Bolaji. One in the eye for critics of creative African writing
ReplyDeleteVery impressive writer, Mr Bolaji, great longevity, very versatile. THis is heartening
ReplyDeleteAs Mr Mokoena, I think has pointed out elsewhere, it is actually the "sparkling", intriguing conversations involving a medley of people that is often the main strength of the Tebogo Mystery books. The conversations are always crisp, witty, sardonic etc - but in the end they always point to the guilty person
ReplyDeleteMr. Bolaji never ceases to amaze us. Continuously churning out great pieces of literature. From his early days he has always been exceptional. Good work egbon.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the reactions. I do feel that Mr Bolaji is a superb African writer, so creative and enduring. For him to still be able to bring out a new Tebogo adventure after all these years deserves great approbation
ReplyDelete