By: Siya Hlebani
Rhodes University alumnus and current Master's student Lazarus Kgageng has officially published his debut novel, The Chords of a Hymn, a searing fictional narrative that confronts themes of gender-based violence (GBV), queer identity, parental expectations, and survival. The book was published on 30th March 2025 and is ready to ignite essential conversations around trauma, identity, and healing.
Kgageng, who completed both his undergraduate and honours degrees in Political and International Studies at Rhodes University, is now pursuing his Master's in the same field, focusing on Critical Studies in Sexuality and Reproduction. Speaking on how his academic background influences his literary work, Kgageng says his studies helped him understand the political nature of personal experiences, particularly gender identity and sexual orientation. He quotes Carol Hanisch: “the personal is political.”
Initially conceived in 2021 as a submission for the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture competition, Kgageng’s manuscript did not make it to the competition. Due to numerous personal challenges, he could not submit the work before the deadline. However, this pause allowed him to refine and preserve the manuscript, which was later accepted and selected for publication through the 2024 Publish’d Afrika Magazine Adopt-An-Author Programme. This prestigious opportunity gave Kgageng access to professional editing under esteemed novelist Sukoluhle Mdlongwa, ultimately transforming his work into a powerful tool for advocacy and self-expression. “I wanted to raise awareness about GBV and how it affects the lives of mothers and children. Using the book's earnings, I also wanted to pay off my Rhodes University debt.”
The Chords of a Hymn follows the story of Sechaba, a young boy navigating the traumas of a violent home, societal rejection, and the complexities of his sexuality. Through Sechaba’s journey, Kgageng explores how victims often lack the power to leave abusive environments until external forces intervene. He also delves into how forced marriages, driven by economic gain, can have devastating lifelong effects.
“In many African cultures, women are told never to return home once married,” Kgageng explains. “Sechaba’s mother was forced into a marriage that was meant to uplift her family financially, but it led to years of violence and isolation,” he continues.
The book also touches on bullying in schools, particularly against queer learners, and its long-term psychological effects. One pivotal moment in the story sees Sechaba retaliating against his bullies. This becomes an act that dramatically alters the course of his life. He states, “Bullying doesn’t just break confidence—it can derail an entire future.”
Beyond the fictional storytelling, Kgageng’s novel is deeply personal. He draws from his own experiences of navigating queer identity, a traumatic romantic relationship, and sexual assault. “I never officially came out, but my family created a safe space for me. Still, being involved with someone who wasn’t comfortable with their sexuality traumatised me,” he reflected.
Support from his Rhodes University community played a crucial role in his writing journey. He credits his best friends, Siyamthanda Mabuya and Ibabale Sobekwa, for consistently encouraging his work, reading drafts and offering candid feedback. He also pays tribute to the Ink Society at Rhodes a creative writing society for being a haven for queer creatives. “It was a space where I saw I wasn’t alone,” he says.
From the University staff side, Kgageng acknowledges Sue Smailes from the Vice-Chancellor’s Office, whom he met while in the SRC: “She’s been a constant pillar of support, encouraging me to rest, follow what matters, and pursue my passion for writing.”
The RU ZCC Student Fellowship community also played a key role in his development. Kgageng says their encouragement, prayers, and support, especially in celebrating milestones like publishing the book, have been heartwarming. “They even shared my book with alumni networks to help spread the word.”
At its core, The Chords of a Hymn is not just a novel—it is a tool for healing, a voice for the unheard, and a validation of lived experiences. “It’s about raising awareness, encouraging conversations, and reminding survivors that they are not alone,” Kgageng concludes.
“While manoeuvring between the need to erase the pain he grew up with, Sechaba has to choose between genuine love and emerging from his shadows, shielding his mother from looming death, getting himself back in school and keeping himself alive. It makes one wonder: At what price will Sechaba’s life know peace? Will the pain really leave him?”
The Chords of a Hymn is now available through personal orders. Proceeds contribute to settling the author’s academic debt and supporting continued awareness on GBV and queer visibility.