Theory question 110
African PoetryLiterature 2, Section C. African Poetry
Comment on Cheney-Coker's use of language in the poem “Freetown”.
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Model answer
Syl Cheney-Coker writes in the first person, a personal, emotional voice of anguish.
Apostrophe: he speaks directly to Freetown/Africa as to a person or mother.
Imagery and symbols of rootlessness and colonial influence (e.g. himself wandering 'like a Fulani cow', the attraction of Europe).
Contrasts between Africa and Europe, between love and shame for his origins.
Diction of pain and disgust alongside hope of renewal.
Effect: the language conveys the poet's alienation, self-hate and longing to identify with his land.
Explanation
Quote short phrases and comment on their effect.