A Game of Polo with a Headless Goat

Question 1

Writer uses language techniques to convey a sense of enthusiasm

Answer 1

‘fired up’ metaphor creates a sense of excitement building up - the ‘lads’ are hyperactive and passionate to get involved in the donkey race.
active verbs ‘standing’ and ‘cheered’ reflect the eager atmosphere.

Question 2

The writer uses structure to demonstrate the chaos of the race.

Answer 2

‘horns tooting, bells ringing and the special rattles’. auditory imagery in a tripartite list shows how the writer is overwhelmed by the madness.
Short sentences reflect the franticness of the event by creating a fast pace.

Question 3

The writer presents the boys driving as reckless

Answer 3

parenthetical state ‘ - for it was a main road - ‘ reinforces they weren’t keeping to the laws of the road
“because I’m underage!’ - comical image of an underage driver conveys their careless attitude to rules and restrictions.

Question 4

The writer shows the disorganised manner of the race

Answer 4

‘two jockeys and ‘officials’’ - sarcasm discredits them - unorganised, useless officials lacking power and authority.
‘survival of the fittest’ creates a sense of uncivilised lawlessness.