Discussion of Can Themba's identity ethos will remain incomplete without a critical look at his reflections on socio-political themes and perspectives. But before beginning an analysis of this topic, it is worth speculating, somewhat ruefully, on the perils of projection during the research process.

Many modern commentators with contemporary political awareness are almost desperate to gain clarity on the politics and political ideologies of their subjects and icons, especially if they suspect that this evidence exists, but might be lost in the mists of time. I was no different. I kept coming up blank as I tried to establish whether Themba had been actively involved in politics, as well as to trace his views and perspectives on the subject.

Then came a breakthrough – or so I thought. I was referred to veteran politician and former Robben Island prisoner Ahmed Kathrada, whom I was told was one of very few people alive who knew of my subject's direct political involvement. I believed this would be a turning point in my project on Themba, as information from a man who had spent years on Robben Island with other liberation struggle heroes such as Nelson Mandela and Walter Sisulu, both of whom were resident in Sophiatown during the 1950s, was sure to carry weight. Rumour had it that part of what Kathrada would share with me were startling details of Themba serving as an underground operative of the ANC during the struggle days.

Greatly excited, I finally secured an interview with Kathrada on Thursday, 8 October 2015. Before this date, I had indicated to the struggle stalwart that I was interested in hearing about Themba’s political involvement, as Kathrada apparently knew things about Themba's political activism that not many were aware of. My intention was to jostle his mind and ignite memories so that he could share anecdotes about the man who, as was already clear, was a charismatic character.