Sociality and Agency in Mandisi Bongelo’s “I am a Human Being - Flesh and Spirit”

Abstract

This article uses the close reading method to analyse Mandisi Bongelo’s narrative, “I am a Human Being—Flesh and Spirit” to explore whether friendship fosters one’s agency. It draws on Lucas’ discussion of loneliness and appearance, particularly her discussion of ontological agency, and the African concept of ‘Igwebuike.’ After all, humans are driven by an insatiable want to connect with others because, via social interactions, people can express who they are and find a place to fit in, which leads to recognition and opportunities for social interactions. For certain people (particularly those that societies see as abnormal or unattractive), forming certain types of social bonds, including friendship and marriage, can be challenging at times, and can lead to a life that is purposeless and lonely. Against this backdrop, the article additionally attempts to ascertain whether friendship has the capacity to undermine negative and discriminatory narratives that marginalise individuals with albinism. In this regard, the article argues that friendship accords those with albinism the ontological awareness, bravery, and self-assurance to act alongside and ahead of those without albinism. Furthermore, social pressures and friendship-based influences can also negatively impact or severely undermine an individual’s agency.