JAMB - Literature In English (2001 - No. 39)

This question is based on selected poems from Ker, D. et al (eds.): New Poetry from Africa; Soyinka, W. (ed.): Poems of Black African; Senanu, K.E. and Vincent, T.(ds.): A Selection of African Poetry; Umukoro, M. et al (eds.); Exam Focus: Literature-in-English; Eruvbetine, A.E. et al (eds.) Longman Examination Guides and Nwoga, D.I. (ed.):West African Verse

In Mapanje's When This Carnival Finally Closes', the poet is describing the

role of spirits in a carnival
preparation for a carnival
role of drumming and dancing in a carnival
role of sycophancy and bad leadership

Explanation

The poem is a metaphorical commentary on the political situation, where the "carnival" symbolises the chaotic, superficial and corrupt nature of leadership. The speaker reflects on the end of this "carnival" as a moment of reckoning, hinting at the negative effects of sycophancy, exploitation, and misgovernance, which have been prominent throughout the event.

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