Theory question 109
African PoetryLiterature 2, Section C: African Poetry
What picture of rural life is presented in J.P. Clark's Night Rain?
Show the model answer
Model answer
Night storm in a poor village hut; the roof leaks.
Mother moves pots and pans to catch drips ('like a bird...').
The family huddles together on the floor; children half awake.
Rain sound like fish/drums; imagery of the forest and owls.
Peaceful acceptance; they sleep on, comforted by the rain.
Picture: simple, poor but united and peaceful village life.
Explanation
Describe the scene and support each point with images from the poem.