Abstract:
The aim of this paper is to explore the dynamics of hope and hopelessness in Segoete’s novel,
Monono ke mohodi ke mouwane (Riches are short-lived). The researcher employs the interface of theories of
space, hope and hopelessness to demonstrate how the psychic make-up of literary character is shaped in his
struggle for survival within the well-defined space. The findings of the paper reveal that in disheartened moments,
on one hand, hope inspires the main character to keep on going through unpleasant times with expectations that
better days will come. On the other hand, hopelessness interacts with painful episodes and gives rise to the
occurrence of negative events in the lives of a character. It is therefore, concluded that if a character cannot meet
the needs of the changing society, hope in life diminishes because daily problems, coupled with feelings of being a
burden to others, and hopelessness increase. Seeing no value in living accelerates his desire to die.
