Student no : 63286912

Name and surname : Lizzy Mahladi Nchabeleng

Module code : ENG1501

Examination

Section A : Reflection

Question 1

1.The ENG1501 study guide’s introduction to poetry- more especially, it’s examination of
figurative language and poetic devices was one of my favourite parts. Deeper
understanding of how meaning is created in poetry was made possible by the explanation
of personification, similes , and metaphors (Study Guide,p.45). However, due to the
abstract nature of the concepts, I found the potion on structuralism to be more difficult. At
first , it was challenging to understand how post- structuralism theory explains how
meaning is unstable ( Study Guide,p.78) ,but using examples made these concepts more
understandable.

2. I would suggest that students who have just enrolled in ENG1501 do extensive
self- preparation by reading the study guide beforehand and frequently using online
resources. Use of previous test questions and attendance at e- tutor sessions can
greatly enhance comprehension. Following assignment instructions and time
management techniques is also crucial to preventing stress at the last minute. By
participating in discussion boards ,one can improve comprehension of literary
analysis and aid to explain complex ideas.

3. I would suggest extensive self- preparation for recently enrolled ENG1501

students by reading the study guide beforehand and frequently using online
resources. Using previous test questions and participating in e- tutor sessions can
greatly increase comprehension. To prevent stress at the last minute, it’s also
critical to follow assignment instructions and time management techniques.
Engaging in discussion boards can promote a deeper comprehension of literary
analysis and aid to explain complex ideas.
 SECTION B : PRESCRIBED TEXTS

QUESTION 2

1.1 The broken and fluctuating nature of dialogue is reflected in the stanzas, which
each represent distinct segments of a discussion. The poem mimics how actual
discussions change over time by alternating between introspection, social
criticism, and shared feelings.
1.2 In stanza one, the speaker directly addresses God ,as seen in the line : “ I say
constantly to God”. The speaker seems to be speaking to a brother in verse four,
using the phrase “ and only there my brother” to allude to a close bond or similar
experience.

2.1 The first line , “I say constantly to God: “ ,uses a colon(: ) to introduce an explanation or
elaboration. This suggest that what follows is deep reflection or plea to God. The use of a
lowercase “I” may indicate humility , insignificance , or informality in addressing God ,
highlighting a personal , almost desperate tone.

2.2

• “bearing it’s cross” : This references the anguish and load that Jesus Christ carried
on his cross before to his crucifixion. It implies that people who have leprosy (or
suffer from it) bear a great burden.
• “dying as always in someone’s palms” :This might be a reference to Jesus
‘crucifixion , in which his palms were pierced with nails. It represents suffering ,
sacrifice, and perhaps martyrdom.

2.3 The opening stanza conveys grief and suffering in solemn , introspective tone. The
expression “ leprosy is everything in the bone with it’s own sea and it’s own sadness”
evokes a sense of hopelessness and intense , internalised suffering

3. Similes and Their Effect

31

• Stanza two : “ for men like termites will gnaw and tear at your soul” . This simile
compares men to termites , suggesting that people can be destructive and
relentless, slowly eroding one's spirit
• Stanza four : “ each piece of human sadness pierces the winter air like a bang” . This
simile compares sadness to a sudden ,loud sound , emphasizing the overwhelming
impact of grief and despair.
3.2 Both similes depict suffering- one through slow destruction (termites gnawing) and
other through sudden pain ( a bang) together, they reinforce the poem’s bleak and
emotional tone , emphasizing themes of hardship and distress.

4. “Trivial” indicates inconsequential or unimportant. The speaker uses it humorously as

well as negatively. The speaker in stanza two makes the argument that occasionally, it is
preferable to concentrate on unimportant matters in order to prevent becoming overtaken
by more important ones. ( “it is good to be trivial when the time allows”). But in verse four ,
“trivial” contrast with profound melancholy, suggesting that even little, banal discussion
can disclose more profound feelings (“ sometimes we talk of trivial things, of nothing at
all”).

5. The term “ aloud” can signify both speaking out aloud and permitting the unrestricted
expression of ideas or emotions. The pun highlights the difference between uttered words
and the more profound feelings that are kept silent. It implies that people’s actual feelings
may go undetected or unheard even when they speak loudly.

6. Understanding that New Brighton is a community close to Gqeberha ( Port Elizabeth)

gives the poem’s themes of adversity and struggle more context. The poem’s allusions to
misery ( “ simply hijack your soul”) and the hardness of life are consistent with the
township’s associations with poverty , crime , and socio-political upheavals in South
Africa. Given the context , it is likely that the poem captures the real- life realities of those
who live in these places.

Question 3 : Novel

The Role of Art and Music in Small Things by Nthikeng Mohlele

In Nthikeng Mohlele’s Small Things , music and art are important because they allow for
the exploration of existential concerns as well as the expressing of emotions. The
protagonist of the book is very thoughtful and introspective man who regularly uses art and
music to help him deal with the difficulties of identity, love , and loss. The passage from
page 63 to 64 , where he recalls his emotional response to a performance at The Hugh ,
provides a powerful starting point for examining how the novel weaves art and music into
it’s narrative to highlight both personal and broader societal themes.

The aforementioned text depicts a profoundly emotional moment in which a student

performance brings the protagonist to tears. This instance demonstrate the deep influence
music can have on the human soul by arousing feelings of nostalgia, longing, and either
alienation or belonging. The protagonist’s tears imply that music serve as a cathartic outlet
for him , enabling him to work through unresolved feelings and consider his own life . This
notion is reaffirmed throughout the book , where music is frequently portrayed as a means
of communicating ideas that words are unable to express.

In order to highlight the protagonist’s connection to music, Mohlele uses sensory and
emotive language in this paragraph , which is especially evocative. Words like “ crying” , “
performing” , and “ wasting your life” allude to a conflict between beauty and
hopelessness, highlighting how music both inspires and torments him . By contrasting the
innocence of artistic expression with the harsh facts of life, the allusion to “ stained
hospital sheets” heightens this contrast even further. A recurrent theme in the book , this
interaction between beauty and pain serves to highlight the protagonist’s existential
concerns .

Beyond this section, Small Things explores the issue of art and music in a number of ways
that demonstrate it’s transformational potential. The main character makes numerous
allusions to jazz and classical music , implying that these genres provide him comfort
during his turbulent personal journey. For instance, he acknowledges South Africa’s rich
musical legacy and the significance of music in social and political battles by praising Hugh
Masekela, whose name is mentioned in “The Hugh student performance” . As he looks for
purpose in his own life, the protagonist appears to struggle with Masekela's legacy of
utilizing art as an instrument for change, which he embodies through his resistance music
during apartheid era.

Additionally , the book makes connections between love and artistic expression, especially
in the protagonist relationship with Mercedes. He frequently uses poetic and musical
language to express his longing for her, which serves to emphasize the idea that love is both
beautiful and painful, much like art .At one point , he likens his desire for Mercedes to an
eerie , unfinished tune. According to this analogy, music is suitable for the protagonist’s
inner struggle since it reflects the emotional highs and lows of the human experience

Furthermore, literary and visual imagery are important forms of art in the novel. The
protagonist’s numerous allusions to literary characters and philosophical ideas suggest
that he sees art as a tool for comprehending and analysing the outside world. His
reflections on the pointlessness of life , in which he queries if his quest for artistic
appreciation is purposeful or just a means of escaping reality , make this clear. A major
issue in the book the tension between desire and despair, between artistic transcendence
and existential resignation is highlighted by the contrast between the beauty of music and
the harshness of existence .

In conclusion, Small Things employs art and music as powerful thematic devices that
illuminate the protagonist’ s internal struggles and broader societal concerns. The passage
from page 63-64 encapsulates the profound impact of music on the protagonist, setting the
stage for deeper reflections on love , loss , and purpose throughout the novel. Mohlele's
diction enhances this exploration by using evocative language that captures the emotional
weight of artistic expression. Ultimately , Small Things present art and music as both a
refuge and a reminder of life’s impermanence, making them integral to the novel’s
philosophical and emotional depth .