Theory question 109
African PoetryLiterature 2, Section C: African Poetry
Give an account of 'Salute to the Elephant', bringing out the effectiveness of the literary devices used by the poet.
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Model answer
A traditional Yoruba praise poem (ijala/oriki) to the elephant.
Content: the elephant's size and strength, its destructive power, the hunter's respect and fear; praise names.
Devices: apostrophe ('O elephant'), praise names/epithets ('Ajanaku', 'huge beast'), metaphor ('mountain of flesh'), hyperbole on its size, imagery of destruction, repetition, personification.
Effect of devices: create vivid pictures, show awe, give the chant rhythm and oral flavour.
Mood of admiration mixed with fear.
Explanation
Describe the poem briefly, then name each device with an example and its effect.