Julie Tagg| Think and Write for CSEC English A and B

These are possible CSEC questions and answers for poetry. These questions are similar and the response applies to both. (Rubadiri’s An African Thunderstorm” and Wordsworth “Sonnet Composed upon Westminster Bridge”

Question A

In “An African Thunderstorm” and “Sonnet Composed upon Westminster Bridge”, the speaker talks the majesty of nature. Write an essay in which you describe the scene witnessed in EACH poem, and EACH speaker’s reaction to that scene. In addition, discuss the effective use of ONE poetic device in EACH poem.

OR Question B

Select TWO from the prescribed list and discuss the poets’ presentation of the majesty of nature. In addition, assess the use and effectiveness of ONE poetic device in each poem.

The poems “An African Thunderstorm” by David Rubadiri and “Sonnet Composed upon Westminster Bridge” by William Wordsworth express their awe at the power of nature. This essay will describe the scenes presented in each work and the reactions of the speakers to those scenes. Additionally, it will comment on the effective use of one poetic device in each poem.

In “An African Thunderstorm,” the speaker describes the approaching storm in vivid detail. The sky is dark and ominous, and the wind begins to pick up, setting the scene for the impending storm. As the storm intensifies, the speaker uses similes to create striking and detailed descriptions. For example, the lightning is compared to “a snake uncoiled,” and the thunder is described as “a concerto of two hundred drums.” The speaker’s reaction to the storm is one of both fear and admiration. The intensity of the storm is frightening, yet the beauty and power of nature evoke a sense of awe in the speaker.

In “Sonnet Composed upon Westminster Bridge,” the speaker describes the serene and peaceful morning in London. The speaker is standing on Westminster Bridge, looking out over the city, and is struck by the beauty of the scene before him. The speaker’s descriptions of the city are notable for their use of personification. For example, the city is described as “wearing the beauty of the morning,” which is a powerful personification that emphasizes the unity between the natural world and the city. The speaker’s reaction to this scene is one of pure admiration. He is moved by the beauty of the scene before him, and he expresses his awe through descriptions of the city’s majesty and splendor.

The effective use of poetic devices in both poems is notable. Rubadiri uses similes to create vivid and striking images of the storm, while Wordsworth’s use of personification helps to emphasize the beauty of the city. The speakers’ reactions to the scenes they witness are also significant. While both speakers are moved by the majesty of nature, their reactions differ. In “An African Thunderstorm,” the speaker is both frightened and awed by nature’s power, while in “Sonnet Composed upon Westminster Bridge,” the speaker is purely admiring and appreciative of its beauty.

In conclusion, both “An African Thunderstorm” and “Sonnet Composed upon Westminster Bridge” are excellent examples of poetry that celebrates the power and beauty of nature. The use of poetic devices such as similes and personification helps to create vivid and striking images that bring the scenes to life. The speakers’ reactions to the scenes they witness are both similar and different, reflecting the complex emotions that nature can evoke in humans. These poems remind us to appreciate and admire the beauty that surrounds us every day.