A Passage to Africa: Thoughts and Feelings

Question 1

The writer uses descriptive language to create a sense of unease.

Answer 1

‘Line 1’ - semantic field of misery employed in asyndetic list conveys the amount of lives affected by the Somalian war.
‘Like a ghost village’. Simile highlights difference between Gufgaduud and this ran-down, abandoned town, where these people have been left.

Question 2

The writer uses structure to separate himself from the situation.

Answer 2

the brief account of ‘Amina Abdirahman’ establishes that this is just one of the horrors amongst many others - it is a regular occurrence.
‘no rage, no whimpering, just a passing away’ Listing creates a fast pace, conveying the writers emotionless state as he has desensitised himself.

Question 3

The writer is openly honest about the events taking place.

Answer 3

‘It was the smell that drew me to her doorway’. Heightens sense of horror and foreboding
Emotive adjectives ‘decaying’ ‘rotting’ show how the writer has integrity and not scared to hide what is deemed unacceptable in society as he is truthful about the impacts of the Somalian war - he’s trustworthy

Question 4

The writer experiences deep emotions when he sees the smile.

Answer 4

‘it touched me in a way’ - personification conveys that the writers realisation and mental awakening is almost physical, implied through kinaesthetic imagery.
Ends the extract on a sentimental tone by directly addressing the man - personal and emotive.