My Name Flashcards
State two reasons why the speakers is very proud of her name
The speakers is proud of her name for its cultural and ancestral significance. Firstly her name “Nomgqibelo Ncamisile Mnqhibisa”, is a direct link to her heritage and honours her great-great-grandmothers, symbolising her deep connection to her ancestry. Secondly, the name carries intrinsic meaning and identity, representing her history and cultural roots, which she values and respects deeply
Refer to line, what feeling does the speaker express in this line?
In this line, the speaker expresses a feeling of disappointment and frustration. She is dismayed at how her name, which she treasures, has been disregarded and distorted by the bureaucratic system, reflecting a broader disrespect for her cultural identity
What does the word ‘burly’ suggest about the bureaucrat?
The word ‘burly’ suggests that the bureaucrat is physically large and imposing, possibly with an intimidating presence. This description may also imply a certain insensitivity or lack of refinement in his manner, aligning with his dismissive attitude towards the speaker’s name
Refer to line 6, does the reference to music suggest that the bureaucrat appreciates the speaker’s name? Give a reason for your answer.
No, the reference to music does not suggest that the bureaucrat appreciates the speaker’s name. Instead, it implies that he finds it amusing or peculiar, treating it as a curiosity rather than showing genuine appreciation. The bureaucrat’s reaction is not one of respect but rather one of amusement or condescension towards the unfamiliarity of the name
Where does the speaker come from?
The speaker comes from Chief Daluxolo Velayigodle of emaMpodweni, which indicates her specific cultural and regional background
Refer to line 10, what does the use of the word ‘Messiah’ suggest about the speaker?
The use of the word ‘Messiah’ suggests that the speaker feels helpless and in need of divine intervention. It indicates her desperation and possibly her Christian faith, as she calls upon a higher power for assistance in a situation where she feels powerless
Identify the figure of speech used in line 13
The figure of speech used in this line is metaphor. The speaker metaphorically describes how the bureaucrat perceives her name, equating his lack of respect for it to treating it as “trash,” something worthless or insignificant
Explain why the bureaucrat changes the speaker’s name to Maria.
The bureaucrat changes the speaker’s name to “Maria” because it is more familiar and easier for him to pronounce and remember. This action reflects a broader colonial and bureaucratic tendency to simplify or alter African names for convenience, often disregarding the cultural significance of the original names
Refer to lines 16–18, discuss the effect created by the use of very short lines at this point in the poem.
The use of very short lines at this point in the poem emphasizes the abruptness and finality of the speaker’s identity being replaced. This structural choice highlights the reduction of her complex identity to a single, simple name that erases her cultural heritage. It conveys a sense of loss and diminishment, underscoring the impact of the bureaucrat’s actions on the speaker’s sense of self. The abruptness also reflects the bureaucratic process’s cold efficiency and indifference to personal identity
