search for my tongue Flashcards
What is the main theme of the poem ‘Search for My Tongue’?
The main theme revolves around the struggle of identity and the conflict between languages and cultures.
True or False: The poem uses the metaphor of a tongue to represent language.
True
Fill in the blank: The poet expresses a sense of _______ regarding her native language.
loss
What two languages are primarily contrasted in the poem?
The poet contrasts her native language (Gujarati) and English.
Identify one literary device used in ‘Search for My Tongue’.
Metaphor
What does the phrase ‘the mother tongue’ signify in the poem?
It signifies the poet’s native language and cultural roots.
In the poem, what happens to the speaker’s ability to speak her mother tongue?
It diminishes as she becomes more immersed in English.
Multiple choice: What does the poet suggest happens when she dreams in her native language? A) She forgets it B) It becomes stronger C) It disappears
B) It becomes stronger
True or False: The poem suggests that losing one’s mother tongue leads to a complete loss of cultural identity.
True
What imagery is used to describe the mother tongue in the poem?
The imagery of a tongue growing back and sprouting is used.
What is the significance of the poem’s structure?
The structure reflects the duality of languages and the emotional journey of the speaker.
Short answer: How does the poet feel about her mother tongue?
She feels a deep connection and loss, but also a sense of resilience.
Fill in the blank: The poem ultimately conveys that language is a part of one’s _______.
identity
What does the poet mean by saying her mother tongue ‘grows back’?
It implies that despite challenges, her connection to her native language remains strong.
True or False: The poem presents a purely negative view of bilingualism.
False
What emotional tone does the poet convey throughout the poem?
A tone of nostalgia and longing.
Identify one quote from the poem that reflects the struggle with language.
The line about the tongue ‘going away’ reflects this struggle.
Multiple choice: Which of the following best describes the poem’s conclusion? A) Acceptance B) Rejection C) Indifference
A) Acceptance
How does the poem illustrate the idea of cultural conflict?
It shows the tension between maintaining one’s native language and adapting to a new language.
Fill in the blank: The poet uses _______ to represent the complexities of her linguistic identity.
metaphors
