How do you know you’re in love? Is it that feeling of longing for someone? Or, maybe, it’s about acting dumb in front of them? Is it about the vibes your partner gives you? Or could it be their curves and muscles that attract you? Many singles and dating couples had a lot to say at the official book launch of When Love Says Goodbye  by Scholastica Moraa. Dubbed the Red Party, it was held on 14 February, Valentine’s Day. 

From the amazing décor to the eye-catching outfits by those who attended, this was an exceptional event. The colours red and black dominated, in keeping with the theme of Valentine’s Day. Guests came from far and wide prepared to love and be entertained. The menu of activities included not just a wide range of foods and drinks, but also spoken word performances, various dances and games.

Friends, authors and fans of Moraa attended to celebrate her achievement in launching the poetry book. “It is not easy to pull such a crowd for a book event and having all those people show up filled my heart with gratitude,” she said. 

Performances

An emotional moment for Moraa was a speech from her former teacher. The audience were not left behind, with the spoken word performances and songs raising the audience’s emotions to breaking point. 

‘When love whispered goodbye, did you hear the sound, the heart shattered pieces scattered on the ground? Did you feel the pain? Does it linger like it does in my mind?’ These words by spoken word artist Mtanashati sent shivers through the room. The question in everyone’s mind was, what if love said goodbye that Valentine’s night or any other day, would they live and breathe like they used to? 

“It’s Valentine’s Day and much as it’s a day when people celebrate love, sometimes love doesn’t last. It doesn’t mean we should stop believing in love, but we should also be aware that it says goodbye,” said Maureen Kihanya, a content creator and marketing consultant.

“Don’t call me your ex, sijamaliza kukupenda”, a song from Cheif Matigari and Vivian serenaded the audience. It was that moment where everyone would agree that not all relationships have to end. For sure, love wasn’t about to say goodbye as new connections were made, laughter and joy was shared, and slow music and dance filled the air. The left-footed guys were definitely covered with lessons on how to dance the famous partner dance “kizomba”.

The games were another aspect of the event that made it not only unique but something to look forward to. Starting with the puzzle games and going to speed-dating, many participants made friends at the end of the day. “The games were very interactive and engaging. There were deep questions and they got people to actually think about how they view love,” said Cheryl Kami from the Not-Nerdy Book Club.

“It was everything I hoped it would be and more. Mvua Press did a wonderful job in organizing the event and it was as lively as I had hoped it would be,” said Moraa.

As the night came to a close, many expressed their desire to have more events like this for supporting new talent and embracing love. Moraa advised everyone to show up for more book events, saying that authors needed the support of people who actually buy, read and appreciate their work. 

“I would love every day, every weekend to have events like this one, to launch more books, meet new people, interact and enjoy the day,” said Evans Ogeto, a medic and an author.