Theory question 110
African PoetryLiterature 2, Section C. African Poetry
Comment on the use of irony in “No coffin, no grave”.
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Model answer
Jared Angira's poem tells of a powerful politician who is assassinated.
He had planned a grand funeral and a costly coffin under the jacaranda tree by his palace, but he is left with no coffin and no grave.
Instead of doctors, scavengers (vultures) perform his autopsy.
The rifle that kills him gives him a 'gun salute'.
His only mourners are his bullet-riddled car and its licence plate.
Effect: the irony mocks the vanity, greed and violence of politicians and shows that power cannot protect them.
Explanation
Explain the contrast in each example.