The Inklings is the literary society of the University of Pretoria, which aims to promote an understanding and appreciation of culture, language, literature and the arts on campus. The name ‘The Inklings’ is a play on words. It includes the notion of ‘an inkling’, the society’s logo (an inkpot) and is a tribute to the original Inklings in Oxford, which included J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. The Inklings is one of the oldest societies on campus, having been formed in 1982 and registered as a society on campus in 1985. Its members have therefore actively promoted literature, creative writing and amateur drama on the Tukkies campus for over a quarter of a century. Many “Inklings” have gone on to be successful academics, writers and actors, and have made their marks in various other professions too. In this way, the Inklings have contributed much to, and continue to make a mark in, arts and culture in South Africa. Included in the society’s range of activities are:
- Themed poetry evenings
- Poetry performances
- Trips to theatre performances and other relevant creative exhibitions
- Play readings and performances
- Full theatre productions
- Short film productions
- Creative writing workshops and competitions
- Publication of the annual Inclinations poetry magazine
