To Learn How To Speak by Jeremy Cronin

About the Poet

• Jeremy Cronin is a South African poet, activist, and politician.
• His poetry reflects themes of oppression, identity, and resistance.
• He was imprisoned for his involvement in the anti-apartheid struggle.

Background of the Poem

• Written during apartheid South Africa, highlights language as a tool of identity and power.
• Explores the connection between language and the land, symbolising a struggle for freedom.
• Encourages a rediscovery of the voices and stories of the oppressed.

Themes

Language and Identity

• The poem suggests that language shapes one's identity and understanding of the world.
• Learning a language is more than just words; it involves understanding culture, history, and lived experiences.

Oppression and Struggle

• Language is used by the ruling class to dominate others.
• The poem encourages reclaiming language to find one's true voice.

Connection to the Land

• The land is a repository of history, stories, and identities.
• Learning how to speak means learning from the land and its people.

Structure and Style

• Free verse – No strict rhyme scheme, making the poem feel natural and conversational.
• Imagery – Uses vivid descriptions to illustrate landscape and identity.
• Repetition – Reinforces key ideas about learning to speak and reclaiming identity.

Key Symbols and Meanings

• "Voice" – Represents identity, history, and cultural heritage.
• "Land" – Symbolises South Africa and the struggle for freedom.
• "Learning to speak" – A metaphor for understanding history and reclaiming lost identity.

Important Quotes and Analysis

1. "To learn how to speak / With the voices of the land"

• Suggests that true speech comes from understanding one's heritage and history.

2. "We must begin with the laughter of the child under the grand carob trees"

• Highlights the importance of innocence, nature, and cultural roots.

3. "Echoing stones"

• Reflects how the past resonates in the present, reminding us of history's impact.

Exam Tips

• Understand the historical context – How does apartheid influence the poem?
• Analyse key metaphors and symbols – What do "voice" and "land" represent?
• Discuss the poet's message – How does Cronin encourage South Africans to reclaim their identity?
• Refer to the poem's structure – How does free verse support its meaning?

Conclusion

• To Learn How to Speak is a powerful poem about language, identity, and the struggle for freedom.
• It encourages South Africans to reconnect with their roots and learn from the land.
• The poem remains relevant as it speaks to cultural heritage and reclaiming one's voice.