“Gray hairs signify old age, not wisdom.Muscles signify strength, not health.Laughter signifies amusement, not joy.Weeping signifies pain, not weakness.Smiling signifies courteousness, not love.”

Matshona Dhliwayo is a Zimbabwean writer and poet. Their work explores themes of identity, colonialism, and the African experience, blending poetic language with sharp social commentary. Known for their evocative and often provocative verse, they challenge conventional narratives about African literature.