JAMB - Literature In English (2001 - No. 40)
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
From the tone of Wole Soyinka's 'Telephone Conversation', the two persons talking hold each other in
mutual suspicion
deep affection
high esteem
outright contempt
Explanation
The poem explores a telephone conversation between a prospective tenant (the speaker) and a landlady. The landlady's reaction to the speaker's race and her questions reveal a sense of suspicion and prejudice, while the speaker's responses indicate discomfort and unease. Both characters display a lack of trust and understanding towards each other, characterized by mutual suspicion and subtle conflict.
Comments (0)
