JAMB - Literature In English (2001 - No. 44)
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
John Keats' 'Ode on a Grecian Urn' expresses the idea that
the Grecian Urn is ancient
the Grecian Urn is mysterious
every work of art is beautiful
life is long, art is longer
Explanation
In the poem, Keats reflects on the timeless nature of art, symbolized by the Grecian urn. The urn preserves an image of eternal beauty and perfection, untouched by the passage of time. The idea that "life is long, art is longer" comes from the notion that while human life is fleeting, art—capturing beauty and meaning—endures far beyond the lives of those who create it.
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