Few literary works have shaped South Africa’s political consciousness quite like I Write What I Like by Steve Biko. Decades after its original release, the text continues to resonate across generations, confronting urgent questions around race, identity, dignity and liberation. Now, through its isiXhosa translation, the work enters a new chapter—one rooted in language, accessibility and cultural preservation. At the centre of this landmark project is Athambile Masola, whose contribution helped refine the language and ensure the text speaks powerfully to contemporary isiXhosa readers.
A writer, poet and scholar, Dr Athambile Masola’s work has long explored the intersections of memory, language, Black womanhood and African intellectual traditions. Her involvement in translating "Ndibhala Intando Yam" extends beyond linguistic interpretation; it is part of a broader commitment to preserving African languages as living archives of culture, politics and knowledge. As Masola explains, language is never merely a tool for communication—it carries history, memory and entire systems of thought. When languages are marginalised, the knowledge they hold risks disappearing alongside them.
In conversation with GLAMOUR, Dr Masola reflects on the responsibility of translating Biko’s politically charged writing, the debates surrounding language and ideology, and the importance of making intellectual work accessible in indigenous languages. More than a translation, the isiXhosa edition stands as a cultural and political statement: that Biko’s voice, ideas and legacy continue to live across languages, generations and time.
GLAMOUR: You recently translated I Write What I Like into isiXhosa. How did this project come about?
Dr Athambile Masola: The opportunity came quite unexpectedly. A few months before the translation process began, I received an email from the publishers inviting me to participate. I hadn't pursued it; it simply arrived in my inbox. The process became very collaborative, and I worked closely with editors, going through multiple drafts to ensure the translation captured the political nuance and depth of the original text. We had numerous debates and revisions because everyone wanted the isiXhosa version to be as strong and precise as possible.
GLAMOUR: Translating the work of Steve Biko must carry enormous responsibility. What were some of the most challenging aspects?
Dr Athambile Masola: The complexity of Biko’s political language was a major challenge. Some debates we had were surprisingly fundamental, even regarding terms like “Black,” “Bantu,” and “brown.” These words carry different political meanings depending on context. I often acted as a kind of adjudicator, weighing perspectives and consulting others before settling on the most accurate wording. Translation is never just linguistic; it’s also political, historical, and cultural.
GLAMOUR: You mentioned discovering debates around certain words and concepts during the translation. What did that reveal about language and politics?
Dr Athambile Masola: It revealed how deeply political language can be. Even seemingly simple words can have layered meanings. In some instances, we had to decide whether a word should reflect everyday isiXhosa or a more formal register. These choices matter because they shape how readers interpret the ideas. Language reflects ideology, and when translating a text rooted in Black Consciousness, every word carries weight.
GLAMOUR: You spoke about balancing accessibility with intellectual depth. How did you ensure the text remained readable for everyday isiXhosa speakers?
Dr Athambile Masola: That balance was crucial to me. Written isiXhosa can sometimes be quite formal, while many people are more familiar with the spoken or colloquial form. In some sections, I simplified the language so readers could navigate the text more easily. In others, I maintained complexity because the concepts demanded it. Ultimately, I wanted readers to feel that the book speaks to them in a living language—not one that feels distant or inaccessible.
GLAMOUR: South African languages continue to face pressure in a globalised world. As a writer and scholar, how do you see literature contributing to the preservation of our languages?
Dr Athambile Masola: Literature plays a crucial role because language is not just communication; it embodies culture, memory, and knowledge. By writing and publishing in our languages, we affirm their intellectual and cultural value. One risk we face is epistemicide—the disappearance of knowledge systems as languages decline. Thus, every text written, translated, or taught in isiXhosa or other African languages helps protect that knowledge and ensures our stories, ideas, and ways of thinking remain alive.
GLAMOUR: The isiXhosa title isn’t a direct translation of I Write What I Like. How did you come up with the final title?
Dr Athambile Masola: One of my first tasks was to help the publishers decide on the title. They initially suggested more literal translations, but I felt those didn’t fully capture the spirit of Biko’s thinking. The title we chose conveys a sense of conviction and political will behind his writing. The term "like" in the English title isn’t just about preference; it reflects a deeper ideological stance, which the isiXhosa title aims to capture.
GLAMOUR: Do you remember the first time you read I Write What I Like? What impact did it have on you?
Dr Athambile Masola: I first read it as a university student, and it completely transformed my worldview. It articulated feelings and questions I already had but didn't know how to express. It helped me understand the anger I had been suppressing regarding racism and inequality. More importantly, it provided a framework for thinking about dignity and self-definition. Black Consciousness teaches us that dignity isn’t something we request; it’s something we inherently possess.
GLAMOUR: Biko’s work is still frequently quoted decades later. Why do you think the book remains relevant today?
Dr Athambile Masola: The issues it addresses haven’t vanished. We continue to live in a world shaped by racial hierarchies and inequalities. Conversations about race, identity, and dignity are ongoing—not just in South Africa, but globally. Internationally, thinkers and artists reference Biko when discussing Black identity and liberation. Translating this book into isiXhosa is a way of asserting that his ideas endure and continue to be relevant.
GLAMOUR: You've expressed your passion for language and literacy. How do you see the translation connecting to South Africa’s literacy crisis?
Dr Athambile Masola: A significant issue in our education system is that children are not always taught in their home languages long enough. Research consistently shows that strong literacy begins in the language a child speaks at home. When children gain confidence and comprehension in their own language, learning additional languages becomes much easier. Therefore, projects like this translation are part of a broader conversation about valuing our languages and recognising their role in intellectual development.
GLAMOUR: What does it mean personally to be part of such a historic project?
Dr Athambile Masola: It feels deeply meaningful on multiple levels. Beyond the intellectual work, research, language, debates, there's something spiritual about it. Being connected to Biko’s legacy in this way feels almost ancestral. I never imagined I would be part of something so closely linked to his ideas and his family’s history. It serves as a reminder that our intellectual work is part of a larger lineage.
GLAMOUR: Finally, what do you hope readers—both young and old—take away from the book?
Dr Athambile Masola: I hope people become excited about ideas again. I want them to recognise the power of language and its ability to connect across time and generations. Most importantly, I hope readers reconnect with Biko. We must keep remembering him and engaging with his ideas, as forgetting would be a tragedy. Through this translation, we clearly affirm: Biko lives, his voice is still with us.
Original article appeared on GLAMOUR's Africa Month Issue, Out In Stores Now.
Recent stories by:
Sindeka Mandoyi
Stand-Up comedy specials to watch when you need a good laugh
South Africa mourns media and culture icon Maria McCloy
6 Protective hairstyles to keep your hair healthy this winter
Kujenga statement sparks online debate amid allegations and band split
Africa Month Spotlight: David Tlale transforms Gautrain Sandton station with AW26/27 “I Am Africa, Not African” showcase
GLAMOUR Recommends
Reflecting on the past, shaping the future: Books to read on Human Rights Day
Netflix unveils The Polygamist trailer, based on Sue Nyathi’s debut bestselling novel
Feel-good and steamy books to read for your next escape
Back to school in term 2: How to help your child reset, refocus and thrive after a difficult first term
5 South African children’s books to read this holiday season
Library fine free week: Time to return overdue books and rediscover South Africa’s top libraries
