Nothing Left to Give Vera Oyaletor Chapter 1 Literature Primary 5 First Term Week 1

Literary Elements:

1. Imagery: The passage uses vivid descriptions and sensory details to paint a picture in the reader’s mind. For example, “dun was weeping bitterly” creates a strong mental image of Dun’s emotional state.

2. Foreshadowing: The passage hints at a significant change in Dun’s life by mentioning that it’s the “first time he would be leaving his grandmother’s compound.” This foreshadows upcoming events or developments in the story.

3. Symbolism: The “large compound” where Dun lives symbolizes his sense of security and belonging. It’s a place of comfort and familiarity.

4. Irony: The passage is ironic in the sense that Dun is leaving his home (grandmother’s compound) to be with his mother in the city, which might be expected to be a happier event. However, Dun’s sadness and resistance to leaving create an ironic twist.

Examples and Explanation:

1. Imagery: When the passage mentions Dun “weeping bitterly,” it uses strong imagery to convey the depth of his emotions. This helps the reader understand just how attached Dun is to his home.
2. Foreshadowing: The passage hints at a significant change in Dun’s life by mentioning that it’s his “first time” leaving his grandmother’s compound. This suggests that the story will revolve around this transition and its impact on Dun.
3. Symbolism: The “large compound” represents more than just a physical place; it symbolizes Dun’s emotional attachment and comfort. It’s a place where he feels safe and content.
4. Irony: The irony lies in the fact that leaving home, typically a joyful event, is causing Dun to weep. This unexpected reaction adds depth to the story and hints at underlying conflicts or emotions.

In conclusion, this passage from the story explores the theme of home and attachment through the use of literary elements such as imagery, foreshadowing, symbolism, and irony. It sets the stage for a deeper exploration of Dun’s emotional journey as he leaves his familiar surroundings for the unknown city.

Evaluation

1. Dun was __________ as he rode with his mother to the city.
a) laughing
b) weeping
c) singing

2. This was the __________ time he would be leaving his grandmother’s compound.
a) first
b) last
c) second

3. Dun had always called his grandmother’s compound __________.
a) his second home
b) a strange place
c) the city

4. It was __________ to leave his grandmother’s compound.
a) easy
b) strange
c) difficult

5. Dun had never missed being under his mother’s roof for a __________.
a) single day
b) whole week
c) month

6. Dun considered living in the large compound as the __________ that life could offer.
a) worst
b) best
c) only

7. The __________ to be enjoyed here was next to none.
a) discomfort
b) comfort
c) confusion

8. Dun’s mind still held a __________ memory of this place.
a) fuzzy
b) clear
c) distant

9. He could hardly recall any moment spent __________.
a) inside
b) outside
c) at school

10. All that Dun once knew was within this __________.
a) city
b) compound
c) memory

11. What emotion was Dun feeling as he rode to the city?
a) Excitement
b) Sadness
c) Happiness

12. How many times had Dun left his grandmother’s compound before?
a) Never
b) Several times
c) Once

13. Why was leaving the compound strange for Dun?
a) He disliked the compound.
b) He had never been outside before.
c) He loved the compound.

14. How did Dun feel about being under his mother’s roof?
a) He missed it every day.
b) He never wanted to go there.
c) He enjoyed it occasionally.

15. How did Dun view the comfort in the large compound?
a) As the worst possible.
b) As the best available.
c) As uncomfortable.