In those days When civilization kicked us in the face When holy water slapped our cringing brows The vultures built in the shadow of their talons The blood stained monument of tutelage In those days There was painful laughter on the metallic hell of the roads And the monotonous rythm of the paternoster Drowned the howling of the plantations Of the bitter memories of the extorted kisses Of promises broken at the point of a gun Of foriegners who did not seem human You who knew all the books but knew not love Nor our hands which fertilize the womb of the earth Hands instinct of the root with revolt Inspite of your songs of pride in the charnel houses Inspite of the desolate villages of Africa torn apart Hope lived in us like a citadel And from Swaziland's mines to the sweltering sweat of Europe's factories Spring will be reborn under our bright steps. ('The Vultures',by David Diop) The theme of the poem is

Question 38 of 327

In those days
When civilization kicked us in the face
When holy water slapped our cringing brows
The vultures built in the shadow of their talons
The blood stained monument of tutelage
In those days
There was painful laughter on the metallic hell
of the roads
And the monotonous rythm of the paternoster
Drowned the howling of the plantations
Of the bitter memories of the extorted kisses
Of promises broken at the point of a gun
Of foriegners who did not seem human
You who knew all the books but knew not love
Nor our hands which fertilize the womb of the earth
Hands instinct of the root with revolt
Inspite of your songs of pride in the charnel houses
Inspite of the desolate villages of Africa torn apart
Hope lived in us like a citadel
And from Swaziland's mines to the sweltering sweat
of Europe's factories
Spring will be reborn under our bright steps.
('The Vultures',by David Diop)
The theme of the poem is

A. Vultures
B. Oppression of Africans by European colonialists and the African's hope for Independence
C. Swaziland's mines and Europe's factories
D. Bloodstained monuments

Correct Answer: B

Explanation

Correct Option: B. Oppression of Africans by European colonialists and the African's hope for Independence Explanation of the Correct Answer

Understanding the Theme: The theme of a poem encapsulates its central message or the main idea that the poet is trying to convey. In this poem, the imagery and language used by David Diop reflect the historical context of colonialism in Africa, particularly the oppression faced by Africans at the hands of European colonizers.
Analyzing Key Lines:
The phrase "When civilization kicked us in the face" suggests a critique of the so-called 'civilizing mission' of colonial powers, which often resulted in violence and subjugation rather than genuine progress.
"The blood stained monument of tutelage" indicates that the education and guidance offered by colonizers were tainted by violence and exploitation.
The lines about "broken promises at the point of a gun" and "foreigners who did not seem human" further emphasize the brutality and dehumanization experienced by Africans under colonial rule.
Hope Amidst Oppression: Despite the grim realities depicted in the poem, Diop introduces a sense of resilience and hope. The line "Hope lived in us like a citadel" signifies that, despite the oppression, there is an enduring spirit among Africans that yearns for freedom and independence. The mention of "Spring will be reborn under our bright steps" symbolizes renewal and the eventual triumph of hope over despair.
Contextual Relevance: The poem is set against the backdrop of colonial exploitation, and it reflects the historical struggles of African nations. Diop's work often addresses themes of identity, resistance, and the quest for liberation, making option B the most fitting choice.

Why the Other Options Are Incorrect or Weaker

Option A: Vultures: While vultures are mentioned in the title and the poem, they serve as a metaphor for the predatory nature of colonial powers rather than being the central theme. The poem is not primarily about vultures but rather about the broader implications of colonialism and the hope for independence.
Option C: Swaziland's mines and Europe's factories: This option focuses on specific locations and economic exploitation but does not capture the overarching theme of oppression and hope. While these elements are part of the poem, they are not the main focus.
Option D: Bloodstained monuments: This phrase highlights the violence associated with colonialism but does not encompass the full theme of the poem, which includes both the suffering caused by oppression and the hope for a better future. It is a significant image but not the central message.

Revision Summary

The poem addresses the oppression of Africans by European colonialists and highlights the hope for independence.
Key phrases illustrate the brutality of colonialism and the resilience of the African spirit.
The theme is not solely about specific elements like vultures or locations but encompasses a broader critique of colonialism and a vision for liberation.
Understanding the context and imagery is crucial for grasping the poem's message.