Es'kia (born Ezekiel) Mphahlele has been involved in almost every phase of black, English-language African literature, either as a participant or commentator. His importance lies in the bold and clear formulation of his ideas on African humanism, a view of life in which humankind is an expression and extension of the supreme force, in harmony with the environment. Against a dual background of Western culture and African tradition, his writing and the direction he has given his life illuminate the courage with which people survive oppression. He has a vision of a liberated land in South Africa where every human life is valued.

Mphahlele's father, Moses, who worked as a messenger, came to Pretoria from the district of Sekhukhuneland, where his forefathers of the Mphahlele clan had been chiefs and headmen. Mphahlele's origin is of concern to students of his writing in view of the contention of some...