WAEC - Literature In English (2014 - No. 24)
UNSEEN PROSE AND POETRY
Read the passage and answer the question
The goldsmith at work is a priest at the altar . As though he was were performing the Eucharist, he is engaged in deliberate motions of reverence. The small vials of various liquids such as mercury are little vessels of communion wine. The minuscule rings of intricately crafted gold are like miniature wafers.
He dips one tiny ring into a liquid, lifts it up to the sky and presses it onto a space in the growing length of necklace. It fits- it is like dipping bread into wine and slipping it between the parted lips of a communicant.
Our lent vigils are not as solemn as the goldsmith's silent solemnity that directs his work. We look on as the wizardry of the master matter craftsman displays itself. We are held in thrall....
The writer's attitude is one of
Read the passage and answer the question
The goldsmith at work is a priest at the altar . As though he was were performing the Eucharist, he is engaged in deliberate motions of reverence. The small vials of various liquids such as mercury are little vessels of communion wine. The minuscule rings of intricately crafted gold are like miniature wafers.
He dips one tiny ring into a liquid, lifts it up to the sky and presses it onto a space in the growing length of necklace. It fits- it is like dipping bread into wine and slipping it between the parted lips of a communicant.
Our lent vigils are not as solemn as the goldsmith's silent solemnity that directs his work. We look on as the wizardry of the master matter craftsman displays itself. We are held in thrall....
The writer's attitude is one of
bewilderment
reverence
indifference
arrogance
Explanation
The passage describes the goldsmith’s work with awe and deep respect, comparing it to a sacred religious ritual (the Eucharist). Words and phrases that suggest reverence include:
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"The goldsmith at work is a priest at the altar."
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"Deliberate motions of reverence."
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"Our lent vigils are not as solemn as the goldsmith's silent solemnity."
These comparisons indicate that the writer sees the goldsmith’s craft as something holy and highly admirable, showing reverence for his skill and dedication.
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