In her latest collection of poetry, "Cycles," Cape Town-based poet Tebogo Nong delves into the theme of personal growth as a never-ending process. This work, creatively directed and designed by Keenan Oliver, is comprised of four sections: New Moon: Self-Love, Solar Eclipse: Self-Reflection, Lunar Eclipse: Connections, and Full Moon: Purpose. Through her straightforward and simple writing style, Nong instructs readers on the importance of breaking unhealthy cycles and creating healthier ones to achieve growth.
Each section of "Cycles" invites readers to reflect on self-love, connections with others, and purpose in life. The poems read like a pattern of breath, with Nong exhaling in the first section and inhaling in the latter two. Throughout the collection, Nong writes with conviction and wisdom, reminding readers that personal growth is an ongoing process, much like the cycles of the moon, sun, and earth.
Not only does "Cycles" serve as a reminder that we all have the power to choose the truths we live by and make meaningful changes in our lives, it is also a call to action for readers to embark on their own journey towards growth. This collection of poems, combined with Keenan Oliver's design of merchandise and a website to promote the book, serves as a testament to the power of self-improvement and the importance of patience, dedication, and repetition in achieving growth.