The Invisible Mass Of The Back Row Flashcards
“They demand a response, demand to be respected and obeyed”
Williams uses this statement to draw parallels between the prejudices of children and those of adults. The use of harsh verbs suggests a hierarchy present in the classroom similar to that seen among children. This downgrades prejudices, exposing them to be childish and immature, and Williams uses this to reveal her disapproval of them.
“frightened face”
The almost onomatopoeic alliteration mimics her fear, suggesting that inequality and the feelings associated with this are experienced by people from most walks of life.
In addition to this, the fact that Hortense picks up on these dark subtleties present in others suggests an ironic emotional maturity, perhaps a direct cause of having been revealed to the destructive class prejudices of society from an early age.
“like swarming bees we descend”
This visual simile further suggests the unity Hortense feels when among her friends and people she can relate to. The noun phrase “swarming bees” presents them as dangerous and uncontrollable.
“the pain of parting traps us in our silent world”
The alliteration of the harsh, plosive “p” emphasises her discomfort at leaving the only place she’s ever known. They seem isolated by the upcoming seperation.
It seems sad to us as readers that it’s so painful for her to leave this place where she hasn’t been happy, simply because it’s the only place she’s ever known.
“frozen faces, frozen information z frozen places”
The reference to “frozen faces” seems to link back to the “frightened face” of the teacher earlier, perhaps suggesting that Hortense has realised that there’s not as great a divide between them as she’s originally thought.
“the back row comes into its own”
The reference to Hortense on “the back row” creates a cyclical structure, implying that prejudice continues no matter where you are. However, the unified, celebratory strength gives a sense of hope for the back row.
“learning the new language in dis here England”
The Jamaican patois presents Hortense’s patriotism - she’s proud of her heritage and hasn’t lost her identity in this new country.
