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'Motho ke Motho ka batho babang' 8.1 The mirror is used as a means of communication and allows the prisoners to bond with one another - NSC English HL - Question 8 - 2018 - Paper 2
Question 8
'Motho ke Motho ka batho babang' 8.1 The mirror is used as a means of communication and allows the prisoners to bond with one another. The mirror is a reminder that... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:'Motho ke Motho ka batho babang' 8.1 The mirror is used as a means of communication and allows the prisoners to bond with one another - NSC English HL - Question 8 - 2018 - Paper 2
Step 1
8.1 The mirror is used as a means of communication and allows the prisoners to bond with one another.
Answer
The use of the mirror serves multiple purposes in the poem. Firstly, it acts as a medium for the prisoners to communicate and connect, fostering a sense of solidarity despite their dire circumstances. Secondly, it symbolizes the lack of physical connection between prisoners, emphasizing their isolation and deprivation. The mirror reflects not just their physical images but also their emotional states, highlighting their need for human interaction.
Step 2
8.2 In 'person', the speaker acknowledges the humanity of the man before referring to his institutionalised state.
Answer
Here, the term 'person' underscores the inherent dignity and worth of the individual, recognizing him as more than just a prisoner. In contrast, the term 'prisoner' dehumanizes the individual, reducing him to a label defined by his crime. This juxtaposition illustrates the struggle between acknowledging one’s humanity and the oppressive labels imposed by society, highlighting the moral implications of how authority views individuals.
Step 3
8.3 The 'antennae' are the two fingers used for communication.
Answer
The 'antennae' symbolize the limited yet vital means of communication available to the prisoners. The imagery evokes the behavior of insects, suggesting both a sense of vulnerability and the necessity of maintaining awareness in an oppressive environment. Just as insects use their antennae to navigate their surroundings, the prisoners must be keenly aware of their conditions to survive, thereby reinforcing the theme of resilience amid adversity.
Step 4
8.4 YES
Answer
The poem indeed emphasizes themes of togetherness and solidarity in the face of oppression. The reference to the 'blocklist' signifies a collective struggle against apartheid, embodying the struggle for freedom and human rights. The solidarity depicted through the clenched fist is a powerful symbol of defiance and unity among the prisoners, accentuating their determination to reclaim their rights and dignity despite systemic dehumanization.