Read the following poem and answer the questions below. Parents

Here are the answers to your questions:

2. Paul R. Viru: Fathers of Nations

a) Identify and illustrate any two features of style as used in the excerpt. (4mks)

• Dialogue: The excerpt uses direct speech between characters to reveal their emotions and advance the plot.
  • Illustration: Professor Kimani's question, "Are you leaving me, Asiya?" and her direct reply, "Yes, I am," exemplify the use of dialogue to convey their strained relationship.
• Pathos/Emotional Appeal: The language evokes sympathy or sadness, particularly regarding the characters' struggles.
  • Illustration: The description of Kimani's despair or Asiya's quiet resolve to leave due to financial hardship appeals to the reader's emotions, highlighting the tragedy of their situation.

b) Identify and illustrate any two thematic concerns from the above excerpt. (4mks)

• Marital Disillusionment/Breakdown of Marriage: The central theme revolves around the collapse of Professor Kimani and Asiya's marriage.
  • Illustration: Asiya's decision to leave Kimani after years of financial struggle, seeking a new life with Newborn Walomu, directly illustrates the theme of a marriage failing due to unmet expectations and hardship.
• Poverty and its Impact on Relationships: The excerpt highlights how economic hardship can severely strain and ultimately destroy marital bonds.
  • Illustration: Asiya's primary motivation for leaving Kimani is the persistent financial struggles they faced, demonstrating how poverty can erode love and lead individuals to seek material security elsewhere.

c) Describe the mood in the first paragraph of the excerpt. (3mks)
The mood in the first paragraph is somber and tense, tinged with despair and resignation. It reflects Professor Kimani's painful realization that his wife, Asiya, is leaving him, marking the end of their marriage due to their long-standing financial difficulties.

d) Describe two character traits of Asiya as brought out in this excerpt. (4mks)

• Pragmatic/Realistic: Asiya demonstrates a practical approach to her life by choosing to leave Professor Kimani due to their financial instability, opting for a more secure future with Newborn Walomu.
• Determined/Resolute: Despite the emotional difficulty of ending her marriage, Asiya is firm in her decision to pursue a path she believes will bring her happiness and stability, showing strong resolve.

e) Using your knowledge of the text, what was the cause of Tuni's death? (2mks)
Tuni, Professor Kimani's daughter, died by suicide after being raped by a prominent politician.

f) Explain the meaning of the following words as used in the excerpt. (2mks)

• Scoffed: To speak about someone or something in a mocking, scornful, or derisive way.
• Wiggled: To move or cause to move with small, rapid, side-to-side movements.