Poetry - An African Thunderstorm by David Rubadiri Flashcards
(16 cards)
What does the storm symbolize in the poem?
destructive force
The storm represents the chaos and devastation, similar to the way locusts destroy crops.
From which direction does the storm come in the first stanza?
From the west
This direction may symbolize the intrusion of colonizers entering Africa.
What imagery/Personification is used to describe the clouds in the second stanza?
Clouds heavy with rain described as being pregnant
This metaphor emphasizes the clouds’ readiness to unleash rain.
How does the poem depict the children’s reaction to the storm?
Screams of delighted children, tossing and turning
The children see the storm as exciting, contrasting with the mothers’ fear.
What literary device is used in the phrase ‘Like a plague of locusts’?
Simile
This simile compares the storm’s destructive power to that of locusts.
What does the phrase ‘Pregnant clouds’ symbolize?
Clouds filled with rain
It is a metaphorical expression indicating that the clouds are ready to burst.
What is the tone of the poem regarding the storm?
Mater of fact, reflective, straightforward
Which figurative device is present in ‘Rumble, tremble and crack’?
Onomatopoeia
This device creates a vivid auditory image of the storm’s destruction.
What theme does the poem explore regarding nature?
Man vs nature
The poem highlights the struggle between human beings and the powerful forces of nature.
Fill in the blank: The storm is described as ‘Like a madman chasing ______.’
nothing
What do the trees bending symbolize in the poem?
Acknowledgment of the storm’s superiority
The bending trees signify the strength and power of the storm.
What contrasting imagery is used to describe the men gathering in the second stanza?
Stately and proper
This contrast emphasizes the disorder brought by the storm.
What does the phrase ‘Clothes wave-like tattered flags’ convey?
Destruction caused by the storm
This imagery illustrates the havoc wreaked on the village. The wind is strong enough to tear the women’s clothing
True or False: The poem presents a clear distinction between the innocence of children and the fear of mothers.
True
What does the line ‘The wind whistles by’ exemplify?
Personification
This line gives human qualities to the wind, enhancing the storm’s character.
What is the overall message regarding power and fear in the poem?
The storm embodies both the power of nature and the fear it instills in humans.
