Question 184 of 327

These question are based on selected poems from Ker, D.et al (eds.)New poetry from Africa; Soyinka, (ed.): Poems of Black Africa; Senanu K.E. and Vincent, T.(eds.): A Selection of African poetry;Umukoro, M et al (eds.): Exam focus:Literature in English: Eruvbetine, A.E.et al (eds): Longman Examination Guide and Nwoga, D.I. (eds.): West African Verse.

In Kunene's A heritage of liberation, the poet persona requests that the weapon of warfare be handed to their

  • A. relations
  • B. grand children
  • C. families
  • D. friends

Correct Answer: B

Explanation
Correct Option: B. Grandchildren Explanation of the Correct Answer: In "A Heritage of Liberation" by the poet Roy Campbell Kunene, the persona expresses a deep connection to the themes of heritage, legacy, and the passing of knowledge and responsibility to future generations. The request for the "weapon of warfare" to be handed to their grandchildren signifies a desire to empower the next generation with the tools necessary to continue the struggle for liberation and justice.
  1. Symbolism of the Weapon: The "weapon of warfare" is not just a literal weapon; it symbolizes the fight against oppression and the struggle for freedom. By asking for this weapon to be handed to their grandchildren, the poet emphasizes the importance of passing down the values of resistance and resilience. This act of handing over signifies trust in the younger generation to carry on the fight for liberation.
  2. Generational Responsibility: The choice of "grandchildren" specifically highlights the idea of generational responsibility. The poet persona is not merely concerned with immediate family or friends but is looking towards the future. This reflects a broader vision of hope and continuity, suggesting that the fight for liberation is a long-term endeavor that requires the involvement of future generations.
  3. Cultural Legacy: In many African cultures, there is a strong emphasis on the importance of heritage and the role of elders in guiding the youth. By focusing on grandchildren, Kunene taps into this cultural narrative, reinforcing the idea that the struggles and sacrifices of the past must be remembered and honored by those who come after.
Why the Other Options Are Incorrect:
  • A. Relations: While "relations" could refer to family members, it is too vague and does not capture the specific generational aspect that "grandchildren" does. The term lacks the emotional weight and the forward-looking vision that the poem conveys.
  • C. Families: Similar to "relations," "families" is a broad term that does not specifically address the future generation. The focus on families could imply a collective responsibility, but it does not emphasize the importance of passing down the legacy to the next generation in the same way that "grandchildren" does.
  • D. Friends: This option suggests a more immediate and personal connection, but it misses the larger thematic element of legacy and generational struggle. Friends may share in the fight, but they do not represent the continuity of the struggle in the same way that grandchildren do. The poet's emphasis is on ensuring that the fight for liberation is sustained through the generations, which friends do not encapsulate.
Revision Summary:
  • The correct answer is B. Grandchildren, emphasizing the importance of passing down the legacy of struggle.
  • The "weapon of warfare" symbolizes the fight for liberation and the responsibility to continue this fight.
  • The focus on grandchildren highlights generational responsibility and cultural legacy.
  • Other options (relations, families, friends) lack the specific emphasis on future generations and the continuity of the struggle.
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