Poetic device
Point out 3 poetic device used in the poem (excluding imagery).
Enjambment, metaphor, symbolism, juxtaposition, personification, irony.
What is the structure of “Carpet Weavers, Morocco”?
Free Verse
List out 2 themes of the poem.
Exploitation, inequality, and time.
Find an example of enjambment in the poem.
"The children are at the loom of another world,
Their braids are oiled and black, their dresses bright."
Find an example of juxtaposition in the poem.
"Their braids are oiled and black, their dresses bright"
"The children are at the loom of another world" vs "The carpet will travel in the merchant’s truck"
"Deep and soft, it will give when heaped with prayer" vs "The children are hard at work"
What does the phrase "the school of days" symbolise?
This symbolises the repetitive passage of the harsh reality of the children’s lives, where each day is consumed by labor.
How does the tone of the poem shifts?
The poem transitions from a playful celebration of culture to a deeper, more reflective tone that emphasises the importance of heritage and the continuity of tradition
Why does the writer use a simile in the first line of the second stanza?
This contrast serves to challenge the reader’s assumptions about what constitutes "normal" childhood experiences, critiquing cultural bias. By framing their labor as something as absorbing as television, Rumens humanises the children while also underscoring the disparity between their reality and that of Western audiences.
Identify one example of metaphor and explain how it contributes to the theme.
The metaphor "the garden of Islam grows" enriches the poem by adding layers of meaning related to cultural and religious significance, beauty, and growth. It highlights the intricate connection between the children's labor and their heritage, while also emphasising the artistry and nurturing aspects of their work.
How does the structure of the poem contribute to the message that the speaker wants to convey?
The free verse format allows for a natural flow of thoughts and emotions, reflecting the diverse experiences of the characters. This fluidity mirrors the complexity of cultural identities and the interconnectedness of different backgrounds. Without a strict meter, the poem can shift in rhythm, reflecting the highs and lows of cultural experiences. This variability captures the nuances of acceptance and the emotional weight of navigating diverse cultural landscapes.
Using one example, explain how does the writer shape the tone of the poem.
In the line "The children are hard at work in the school of days", the phrase "hard at work" portrays the intensity and effort involved in the children's work. It suggests a serious and demanding environment, shaping a somber tone.
How does the historical background of the poem contribute to the themes of the poem?
Cultural Heritage: Morocco's history as a crossroads of various civilizations shapes the themes of identity and tradition. The poem reflects the blending of these influences in the art of carpet weaving.
Historical Trade: Morocco's position on trade routes influences themes of exchange and globalization. The poem may reflect on how these interactions have shaped local practices and the evolution of carpet designs.
Suggest how the metaphor in the phrase "the school of days" contributes to the tone and theme of the poem.
This phrase describes the children’s labour to a metaphor of education, where their daily work teaches them survival and skills instead of formal schooling. It reflects the monotony of their life that shapes the reflective tone and brings out the theme of children labour.
Explain what the carpet in the poem symbolise and why does the writer choose carpet.
The carpet symbolises the beautiful outcomes of hard work and dedication, contrasting with the children's tough reality. This also implies that the children's labour are disguised behind the beautiful carpets.
Suggest why is the poem titled "Carpet-weavers, Morocco" (Focus on "Carpet-weavers")
The title is significant as it directly addresses the subject of the poem: the children who weaves carpet, which is a repetitive work. This title draws attention to their work and labour, explaining how the children's life are like.
How does the perspective from which the poem is narrated influence the reader's understanding of the weavers' lives? What effect does this have on the poem's message?
The close observational viewpoint fosters empathy and emotional connection to their labor.
It highlights the skill and significance of carpet weaving as an art form and cultural heritage.
The comparison to television underscores the tension between tradition and contemporary influences. The use of a collective perspective emphasises community and shared cultural narratives. The portrayal of their lives balances joy and the weight of tradition, enriching the poem’s message about artistry and identity.