WAEC Literature in English 2021 Theory — Question 20

Model answer

Points to develop: relation to theme; the extent of grieving; the psychological effects of Africa's grief; Africa's means of survival; Africa's hope for the future. The poem is about suffering and survival; the title, 'The Grieved Lands', is a personification of Africa in grief, extending from colonial to modern times, due to colonialism and slavery — 'in the tearful woes of ancient and modern slave of other seas', as well as seduction ('in the infamous sensation of the stunning perfume of the flower') and violence ('by the wickedness of iron and fire'). This grief has resulted in psychological effects: the aborting of dreams, loss of self-worth, and bottled-up feelings; despite this, Africa survives through resilience — 'the never-dying spirit' that 'bubbles up in dreams', through alliance with kindred souls, and through the sacrifices of the dead. In spite of suffering, Africa lives with hope: hope in union and conscience, integrity, universal justice, and the continuation of the African race — 'we are living. And are imperishable particles of the grieved lands of Africa.'