Tom Dreyer, a Stellenbosch native, has carved a unique place in South African literature with his work spanning both Afrikaans and English.
A graduate of Stellenbosch University and the University of Cape Town, Dreyer’s academic background in creative writing laid the foundation for a prolific career.
His involvement in the University of Iowa's International Writing Program and his role as a writer-in-residence at various global institutions underscore his international reach and the wide appeal of his literary voice.
A Diverse Literary Portfolio
Dreyer’s debut novel, Erdvarkfontein (1998), marked the beginning of a rich and diverse literary career. His second novel, Stinkafrikaners (2000), earned him the prestigious Eugène Marais Prize, establishing him as a significant voice in South African literature.
Over the years, Dreyer has continued to captivate readers with works such as Equatoria (2006) and Dorado (2016), which was also published in English as The Long Wave.
His novels, known for their vivid storytelling and complex characters, have earned him several literary awards and nominations, including the Sunday Times Literary Award and the University of Johannesburg Prize.
A Master of Short Prose and Poetry
In addition to his novels, Dreyer has made a significant impact in the realm of short prose and poetry. His latest collection, Kodachrome (2022), has been met with critical acclaim, adding to his reputation as a versatile writer.
Dreyer's poetry, first introduced in the anthology Nuwe Stemme (1997), has appeared in various collections, including the widely regarded Afrikaanse Poësie in ‘n Duisend en Enkele Gedigte (1999).
His poem “Slaap jy solank dan hou ek die fort,” which won the AVBOB poetry competition in 2019, showcases his ability to craft poignant and resonant verses. Dreyer’s debut poetry collection, Nou in infrarooi (2023), marks a new chapter in his literary journey.
Recognition and Accolades
Throughout his career, Dreyer has been recognized for his contributions to South African literature, receiving numerous awards and accolades.
His novel The Long Wave was longlisted for the Sunday Times Literary Award, while the Afrikaans version, Dorado, was shortlisted for both the University of Johannesburg Prize and the KykNet/Rapport Film Prize.
These accolades highlight Dreyer’s skill in capturing the nuances of South African life, blending local themes with universal concerns, and offering readers a window into the complexities of identity, history, and culture.
A Life in Literature
Today, Tom Dreyer continues to live and write in Stellenbosch, where he draws inspiration from the rich cultural landscape of the Western Cape.
His work, whether in prose or poetry, reflects a deep engagement with the world around him, offering insights into the human condition through the lens of South African experiences.
As he moves forward in his literary career, Dreyer remains a vital and dynamic voice in both Afrikaans and English, contributing to the ongoing evolution of South African literature.
Books Written by Tom Dreyer Kodachrome The Long Wave Dorado Equatoria Polariod
ErdvarkFontein StinkAfrikaners
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