Singh Song! - Daljit Nagra:

Question 1

Context:

Answer 1

His parents emigrated to Britain from India – the experiences for Indian immigrants in Britain influence his poetry.

Question 2

Summary:

Answer 2

A criticised, newly married shopkeeper reveals how much he wants to be with his wife and how precious she is to him.

Question 3

Form:

Answer 3

No regular rhyme scheme, but some rhyme creates a light-hearted tone. It features the voices of the narrator’s wife and customers, showing how he fits into the community. It’s like a song, with verses and a chorus which makes it sound lively and rhythmic. Little punctuation – poem flows in a confident and cheerful manner.

Question 4

Structure:

Answer 4

Alternates between descriptions of marriage and complaints – repetition shows how often he neglects his work. At the end of the poem, the poem slows to reflect the intimate scene. The couples’ similar language shows their closeness.

Question 5

Humorous Descriptions:

Answer 5

Entertaining mixes humour with romance adds to the light-hearted feel.

Question 6

Contrasts:

Answer 6

Contradictory – elements of different cultures to form own identity.

Question 7

Phonetic Indian English:

Answer 7

Strong impression of character and show influence of two cultures.

Question 8

Themes:

Answer 8

Love – Wife’s online dating agency emphasises the new generation’s modern attitude to love.

Rebellion – Wife makes fun of parents – and finds her lack or respect amusing, so she seems acceptable and endearing.

Question 9

Compare to:

Answer 9

Mother, Any Distance, Follower, Sonnet 29.