This question is based on selected poems from D. Ker, C. Maduka et al (eds.): New Poetry from Africa, Wole Soyinka (ed.): Poems of Black Africa, K.E. Senanu and T. Vincent (eds.): A Selection of African poetry and E.W. Parker (ed.) A Pageant of Longer Poems. 'I hear your call I hear if far away I hear it break the circle' The device in which the first two words of the lines above from Okara's 'The Call of the River NUN' are invaried while the rest very is called

Question 134 of 327

This question is based on selected poems from D. Ker, C. Maduka et al (eds.): New Poetry from Africa, Wole Soyinka (ed.): Poems of Black Africa, K.E. Senanu and T. Vincent (eds.): A Selection of African poetry and E.W. Parker (ed.) A Pageant of Longer Poems.

'I hear your call
I hear if far away
I hear it break the circle'
The device in which the first two words of the lines above from Okara's 'The Call of the River NUN' are invaried while the rest very is called

A. refrain
B. parallelism
C. chorus
D. repetition

Correct Answer: D

Explanation

The correct option for the question regarding the poetic device used in the lines from Okara's "The Call of the River NUN" is D. repetition. Explanation of the Correct Answer

Understanding Repetition:
Repetition is a literary device where words, phrases, or lines are repeated in a poem or a piece of writing. This technique is often used to emphasize a particular idea, create rhythm, or enhance the emotional impact of the text.
In the provided lines, the phrase "I hear" is repeated at the beginning of the first two lines. This repetition serves to emphasize the speaker's connection to the call of the river, creating a sense of urgency and importance.
Analyzing the Lines:
The lines read: I hear your call I hear it far away I hear it break the circle
The first two lines start with "I hear," which is the repeated phrase. This repetition draws the reader's attention to the act of hearing, suggesting that the call is significant and perhaps transformative.
Impact of Repetition:
The repetition of "I hear" not only reinforces the speaker's awareness but also creates a rhythmic quality that enhances the poem's musicality. It allows the reader to feel the weight of the call and the distance implied in "far away," making the experience more vivid.

Why the Other Options Are Incorrect

A. Refrain:
A refrain is a repeated line or group of lines in a poem, typically at the end of a stanza. While "I hear" is repeated, it does not function as a refrain because it does not appear at the end of stanzas or sections in a structured way. Instead, it appears at the beginning of the lines, which is characteristic of repetition rather than a refrain.
B. Parallelism:
Parallelism involves using similar grammatical structures in a series of phrases or sentences. While the lines do have a similar structure, the primary device at play here is the repetition of the phrase "I hear." Parallelism would require a more extensive use of similar structures across multiple lines, which is not the case here.
C. Chorus:
A chorus typically refers to a repeated section in a song or poem that is sung or recited by a group. In poetry, it often involves a collective voice or a repeated thematic element. The lines in question do not represent a chorus, as they are not meant to be sung or recited by a group but are rather the individual expression of the speaker.

Summary of Key Points

Repetition is the correct answer because it emphasizes the phrase "I hear," creating a strong emotional connection.
The lines illustrate how repetition can enhance the poem's rhythm and thematic depth.
Other options like refrain, parallelism, and chorus do not accurately describe the device used in these lines.
Understanding these literary devices helps in analyzing poetry more effectively and appreciating the nuances of the text.

By focusing on the concept of repetition, students can better grasp how poets use language to convey meaning and emotion, making it a crucial element in the study of poetry.