Rilinde's first anthology explores depths of emotion

A 20-year-old author from Ha Makushu, Rilinde Ndou, released his debut anthology, Ocean of Tears, on Friday, 27 September. Through this collection, he explores themes of love, loss, and resilience, weaving personal and community experiences into compelling narratives.

Rilinde draws inspiration from both his own life and the lives of those around him. In Ocean of Tears, these themes come to life through a range of stories that reflect the complexity of human emotions, particularly in difficult circumstances. He shares how his own experiences with hardship have shaped his ability to persevere.

“Love, loss, and resilience are universal emotions, but they are experienced in deeply personal ways. Love often drives the characters forward, even in the face of loss, while hope emerges in various forms, from overcoming personal tragedies to defying societal expectations,” he said.

Rilinde believes in the power of storytelling to connect people and hopes his anthology will foster that connection. One particularly significant story, Julia's Story, captures the essence of sacrifice and the difficult choices love sometimes demands. The main character, Julia, faces overwhelming challenges but discovers strength in her vulnerability.

“It’s a reminder that, even in bleak times, we have the power to push through. I hope readers will see themselves in the characters and their struggles. Whether it's coping with loss, the joy of love, or the challenge of staying resilient, I want readers to feel validated in their emotions,” he said.

During the writing process, Rilinde faced the challenge of authentically conveying his characters’ emotions while addressing deeply personal topics. However, he remained committed to his goal of giving voice to important stories.

Date:06 October 2024

By: Thembi Siaga

Thembi Siaga started as an intern during 2021. He assisted with video photography and editing. He also produced numerous small documentaries, focusing on the Vhembe region and its people. Currently he works as a freelance journalist, covering stories in the Elim area.

Thembi studied at the Tshwane University of Technology, where he completed his diploma in Journalism in 2021.

Read: 92