A new and unique form of Setswana poetry called Mosinete is being pioneered at the North-West University (NWU). Coming from the pen of Setswana lecturer Lesego Motlhankane, it marries traditional and contemporary elements and resonates with both heritage and modernity.
With an academic foundation in linguistics and literature, Lesego's passion for Setswana’s oral traditions and evolving poetic forms led him to create this genre.
The word Mosinete, derived from Setswana, symbolises harmony and balance, and aptly represents the poetic fusion Lesego has achieved. Drawing inspiration from the traditional Mosikaro poem and merging it with the structure of the sonnet, Mosinete embraces both proverbs and idiomatic expressions while incorporating free verse and personal narrative.
This hybrid form allows poets to explore themes such as identity, globalisation and technology without compromising the linguistic and cultural depth of Setswana.
Linking heritage with current issues
"Through Mosinete, we maintain the richness of our oral traditions while speaking to today’s realities," he says. "It gives younger writers a way to connect with their heritage and engage with current issues."
Since joining the NWU as a lecturer, Lesego has encouraged his students to understand traditional poetry while adapting it for a globalised world. His innovative approach has been warmly received, with students embracing Mosinete to express their own experiences in an ever-evolving society.
In recognition of his groundbreaking work, Lesego was awarded the NWU’s Research and Innovation Award in 2023 for creative output.
His dedication to Setswana literature is inspiring a new generation of poets, writers and thinkers. "Mosinete ensures that Setswana poetry remains vibrant and relevant," he adds. "It is essential to keep our language alive by making space for modern themes and voices."
Lesego will further discuss this hybrid poetic form at the upcoming Comba International Conference on 7 and 8 November 2024, with his talk titled “The critical analysis of the hybrid poetic structure of Mosinete to enhance literacy”.
His recently released collection of Mosinete poems, Metlhala Ya Bagaka, offers readers a glimpse into this innovative genre.
Through Mosinete, Lesego bridges past and present, ensuring that Setswana poetry flourishes in today’s world while preserving its timeless legacy.
Lesego Motlhankane
