Review by Rebaone Motsalane
Book: Omoseye Bolaji
Author (Editor): Hector Kunene
After reviewing many of his books, the spotlight was finally put on him not as a writer but unmasking the persona behind countless books penned by him.
“Omoseye Bolaji” is a book by Hector Kunene. This is reportedly a biography on Bolaji and Kunene makes a great attempt to unmask the international literary giant. What an honour!
I promised Bolaji that I would not review this (book), but after reading it, I could not shut up and I was impressed and touched by the findings even though they were limited.
These are some of Hector’s discoveries about Omoseye Bolaji. He is (was?) painfully shy, a rare character in this loud world where most extroverts confuse being air heads with being confident. He also experienced a great share (deal) of troubles which might be the reason he is sensitive to the world.
Kunene also noted some of Bolaji’s personal achievements but his subject did try to downplay them. I also got the sense that Kunene knew more than what he has penned down, and out of respect for the “master”, honoured a promise not to reveal him completely to the world. For this, the writer is a bigger (better) man compared to me!
It was good to find out what makes Omoseye Bolaji what he is today. He is shy, humble, ordinary and likes to be considered as nothing special, though he has got so much to be proud of.
I believe these characteristics are just an act to mask the truth behind this enigma. In fact he is a very intelligent person who likes to downplay his abilities so that people around him feel comfortable.
I believe these characteristics are just an act to mask the truth behind this enigma. In fact he is a very intelligent person who likes to downplay his abilities so that people around him feel comfortable. He is confident but hides behind his shades (literally) in case people discover the truth and want a piece of him. He is also very empathetic.
* This review first published in Mangaung Issue, December 14, 2011 edition
