Read the poem Africa by David Diop. Look for the meaning of the ff. words: proud, ancestors, liberty, grave, and slavery.
Questions :
1. How would would you describe Africa based on the poem's first three lines?
2. What feeling might David Diop have in mind in lines
11-15?
3. What is "beautiful black blood" might mean literally? figuratively?
4. What senses has the author used in each of the words in the poem?
5. What is the impact of slavery on Africa and it's people?
6. Do you consider African countries free now? Why or why not?
Answer (1)
Glossary of Words from Africa by David Diop Proud - Feeling deep pleasure or satisfaction from one's own achievements or the achievements of those with whom one is closely associated.Ancestors - Relatives from whom one is descended, typically more distant than grandparents.Liberty - The state of being free within society from oppressive restrictions imposed by authority on one's way of life, behavior, or political views.Grave - A place where a dead body is buried, or it can also mean serious or solemn in demeanor.Slavery - The state of being a slave; the condition in which individuals are owned by others and forced to work without freedom.1. How would you describe Africa based on the poem's first three lines?In the first three lines of the poem, Africa is described with a sense of grandeur and historical richness. The language conveys a feeling of pride and a deep connection to its past, emphasizing its strength and beauty despite the suffering it has endured.2. What feeling might David Diop have in mind in lines 11-15?In lines 11-15, David Diop seems to express a deep sense of pain and longing. He reflects on the suffering and struggle of Africa under the weight of colonization and exploitation, suggesting a profound emotional connection and sorrow for the loss and injustice faced by the continent.3. What does "beautiful black blood" might mean literally? Figuratively?"Beautiful black blood" refers to the literal blood of African people, which is described as beautiful in its vitality and essence.Figuratively, "beautiful black blood" symbolizes the resilience, strength, and enduring spirit of African people. It reflects pride in their heritage and the sacrifices made for freedom and dignity.4. What senses has the author used in each of the words in the poem?Sight: Descriptions of Africa's landscapes and people, which evoke visual imagery.Sound: The poem might include references to the sounds of the land and the voices of its people.Touch: The physicality of the land and the feeling of the struggle against oppression.Emotion: The poem conveys a deep emotional sense of pride, pain, and longing.5. What is the impact of slavery on Africa and its people?Slavery had a profound and devastating impact on Africa and its people. It led to the loss of millions of lives, disrupted social and economic structures, and inflicted long-lasting trauma. The exploitation and dehumanization during slavery caused significant suffering and hindered Africa’s development and unity.6. Do you consider African countries free now? Why or why not?While many African countries are politically independent and have sovereignty, they may still face challenges related to economic development, political instability, and social inequalities. The legacy of colonialism and slavery continues to impact these nations, influencing their current socio-economic conditions and contributing to ongoing struggles for true freedom and equality.
