Abstract
The article shall be a critical analysis of selected isiZulu proverbs expressing broken love in
Mzobe’s poem ‘Isoka’ found in the anthology; Amahlungu Aluhlaza by S. Nyembezi. The concepts of
poetry, proverbs and love shall be defined as part of the introductory section of this discourse. Thereafter,
a summary of the poem shall be provided and the dominant proverbs that are identified will be listed,
before the actual analysis. The analysis will focus on the proverbs’ origin, structure, literal and figurative
meanings in general, and the meaning of each proverb within the context of the poem. It will also
comprise of the poet’s intention by using the proverb. That is, how the proverb expresses the poet’s views
regarding the subject. The results of this research will empower its reader with knowledge on the
significance of the proverbs and how they are used in African literature.