Structure and Plot Development

A plot follows a structured sequence to engage the audience. The key elements are:

The Main Plot

The central event in Nothing But the Truth is Themba's funeral. This brings together the main characters, leading to discussions and debates that uncover memories.

• Sipho arranges a traditional funeral for his late brother Themba.
• Their complicated relationship is a major conflict in the play.
• A further complication arises when Sipho discovers that Themba's body has been cremated, leaving only ashes instead of a body for burial.

Sub-Plots

Sub-plots are smaller storylines that run alongside the main plot. In this play, they include:

• Sipho's job application for the position of Chief Librarian.
• South Africa's Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) process following the end of apartheid.
• Mandisa's invitation to Thando to move to Johannesburg and Thando's decision.
• Sipho's memories, including his first job, his father's funeral, and the death of Luvuyo. These sub-plots add depth to the story and develop key themes such as family, truth, reconciliation, and justice.