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Silent Songs Guide SPLE S1
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Kaimosi Friends University College
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SILENT SONGS AND OTHER STORIES
QUICK REVISION GUIDE
ENGLISH &LITERATURE
SAMPLE PREVIEW GUIDE
NOTES
For Complete Guide Notes
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MWALIMU CONSULTANCY
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####### SILENT SONG AND OTHER STORIES GUIDE
Introduction
“A Silent Song and other Stories” is a unique collection of short stories from various societies across the world. They have been carefully selected to represent various generations of writers from diverse backgrounds. The stories are meticulously sought and packaged to provoke interest in young Kenyan readers and help them encounter in-depth literary experiences.
A wide range of techniques, settings and themes that are relevant to the contemporary issues affecting Kenyans have been addressed in the collection. These will expose the students to a rich diversity of perspectives that will result in appreciating the uniqueness of cultures across the globe.
AUTHOR - Godwin Siundu
ANALYST - Mwalimu Consultancy Ltd.
The summary guide covers all the following stories of the silence songs A man of awesome power (Naguib Mahfouz-Egypt). Incident in the park Ninema – vrenika Pather A silence Song – Leonard Kibera Ivory Bangles The sins of the Fathers The truly married woman Talking money The Ghost God sees the truth, But waits The Neighbourhoods watch December Boyi Cheque mate
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uses his ability to satisfy his desires for her. Their intimacy costs him his incredible power. He pays this price for misusing the power that God had freely given him. The story ends with his sad realisation that he no longer has power. His attempts to order the television channels to change do not bear fruits. He experiences a tremendous sadness that will haunt him for the rest of his life.
CHARACTERS A AL-MAHDI He is the main character in the story, and the story revolves around the awesome power that he miraculously acquires sometime after his retirement.
He does not reveal to his wife that he had been bestowed with such power. His initial intention is to use the ability to change his country and the entire planet like he had always wished.
He is portrayed as religious, ambitious yet emotional and vengeful.
EPISODIC ANALYSIS OF KEY ISSUES Man of Awesome Power' is founded on several pillars determined by the various episodes: Tayyib's dream — pg 1- Utilising the awesome power -pg 2- Losing the awesome power- pg 5 Nide to a silent son and other stories
KEY ISSUES ARISE FROM THE EPISODES: Acquisition of power How Tayyib acquires his power teaches several things: One can gain power at any stage of life.
Tayyib believed that he had completed his mission in the world. Before acquiring power, he lives a peaceful life as he enjoys the fruits of retirement. The writer notes that 'He had generous insurance and more than adequate pension' pg 1 which do not prevent him from being given power by God.
Power is God-given.
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Tayyib's power is bestowed on him by God. As seen from his words, "All praise to God, Lord of the Worlds", and listening to radio channels devoted to the Quran (pg1), his religious nature is one reason God willed to grant him power. The man who visits him in the dream tells him that starting that moment and as long as God willed, he had been bestowed with the power to order things to be and they would-be. (pg l)
Utilization of Power Tayyib utilizes the power given to him in different incidents: Encounter with the taxi driver (pg 2) In the bus, to deal with the conflict between a man and a woman (pg 3). Performing memorable services along his way to the cafe (pg 3). The radio announcer (pg 3). Tayyib's wrath on Sulayman Bey al-Hamalawi (pg 3-4). The beautiful woman in the Tea Garden (pg 4).
Good utilization of power The episode shows how a person bestowed with power should utilise it. Tayyib's soliloquy during his encounter with the taxi driver captures the need to use power for the well-being of others and to make things better. 'Whoever is granted with power like mine must utilize it only for good.' (pg 2) He uses the power to do several good deeds. Some of the outstanding services that Tayyib performs include filling a gaping pothole, locking an electric box that was open and hanging dangerously, removing a pile of trash and draining sewer water that was flooding an alley. Many people in the neighbourhood appreciate these services. (p 3). He also does a good deed of making Sulayman, who has been evading tax, go to the taxi authorities and pay them millions of pounds he owed them. (pg3).
Misuse of power Tayyib utilises the power given to him for vengeance- The act of causing the tire burst of the taxi since the driver had ignored him is vengeful. Tayyib ignores the noble voice that reminds him not to use power for wrong purposes and lets his anger get the best of him. (pg 2)
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CHANGE Tayyib confirms that he has been bestowed with power by ordering television channels to change. Changing the television channel from a religious one to a foreign one foreshadows the changes that happen to Tayyib once he acquires power.
He is initially described as 'A good man; his sins were forgivable he was a lover of virtue. ones changes him. He becomes vengeful, lustful,
' (pg 2).
However, power deceitful and inhumane. He forgets his faith and life and lets passion and lust control him, which had never happened since he married Haniya. (pg 4)
Power also helps change the risky living condition of the people gaping potholes dangerously hanging an open electric box, Sewer flooding on alleys and piles of rubbish on the way. All these are rectified through Tayyib power (pg 3)
INCIDENT IN THE PARK: Meja Mwangi Episodes / sub-episodes l. The description of the city park in August afternoon. (p6 - 7). Two idlers' dialogue at the pond. - 10). An ambush by two city constables in the park ending in violence. The fruit merchant condemned unheard. (p 12).
SYNOPSIS
The incident in the park, by Meja Mwangi, is a contemporary episode set in the city park and its environs where most citizens, hustlers and workers, spend most of their time as an Outdoor recreation centre. We know it is the popular Uhuru Park in Nairobi through its vivid description.
Metaphorically described, the park is seriously affected by the drought in August. there is a dirty lake at its base, and to the west, up the hill, a cathedral, modern fortresses and ministerial Offices overlooking the park below, and across it is the city itself. A highway, Uhuru highway, separates the park from the city, and on it, there is heavy traffic. In the east, parliament and two city clocks are seen.
Therefore, the park provides a relaxing haven (chilling point) and a source of solace for the misplaced, lost Or frustrated masses flocking the city daily. This has attracted many people. including peddlers trying to make ends meet and idlers killing time here. The city hungry office workers also buy cheap snacks during the lunch hour and return to their stations. Others rush down to River Road to buy chips and roast meat as the loiterers watch the Spectre in a jiffy.
Soon, the park is left with a few idlers and peddlers. Under the slightest shade lie men sheltering from the scorching sun. Watchers watch rowers paddling, reacting to the maxim that spectating is the next best thing to participating. A loafer keeps dropping debris to the fish pond despite the warning inscription on a board. Another man joins him, and a dialogue ensues, and they share a cigarette.
An incident erupts when two city constables demand to see the licence Of the ice cream man and a fruit seller. The Old man helplessly searches and realizes he doesn't have it. Worse. he has no identity card, so he offers the five shillings he has, for he fears the judge and going to jail. He begs for forgiveness, offering all the fruits in vain. On seeing they are unimpressed, he flees to find refuge in the crowded city, and the cops chase him. He is nabbed by a man on the highway and eventually falls into a ditch. There, the poor man is condemned unheard of for being a 'thief'.
Title of the story What is the significance Of the title Incident in the park? What is ironic about the two constables' behaviour at the park? How else do the people spend time at the park?
Thematic concerns With evidence from the text, discuss the urban problem that leads to the destitution of the masses. How does the city's jobless population escape their wretchedness? Compare and contrast the city workers and the jobless masses. What are the harsh realities of city life and the illusion of a better, promising life? How does the rural-urban influx affect people's lives?
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Conflicts between city authority and street hawkers When the two constables accost and demand licences from the ice cream man andthe fruit peddler, they tell the merchant that he will only explain to the judge. The fruit seller already has a case and is trying to sell to afford a fine. (pl 1). The fruit seller pleads with the constables, who say nothing. 7hefruit seller cursed them and their wives and children..(PI 1). Mob justice / Social injustice The fruit seller is lynched unknowingly by the park people. By the time the constable ran up, the fruit-peddler lay like a broken and twisted ragdoll at the bottom of the ditch. (p12) He cries and pleads for mercy in vain.. had drawn thick red blood over the sparsely bearded face. Dead' was his verdict (p12) The word 'thief' hovered over the assembled crowd. mob universally condemns him, and it is impossible to tell from which mouth the condemnation is issued. (p12) Ironically the mob had had what was right. Justice fairly quickly and completely administered ...(PI 2).
CHARACTERS The fruit seller He is a poor old man who sells fruits at the park. He has no licence or identity card. (pl l) He is a responsible man as he remembers he has a family which depends on him when accosted. I have a wife and children and... (PI 1). He is hardworking because he sells fruits (two baskets) to earn his living despite being unable to afford a license. (PI l) He is afraid and fearful that he will be fined or be castrated by the tyrant judge. (pll) Style and language use What figures of speech does the writer use to describe the park and events in the park? Why is it ironic for the fruit peddler to flee from the constables and lose his life?A comprehensive and detailed guide to a silent song and other stories Explore the use of dialogue in Meja Mwangi's Incident in the Park. Urban centres are riddled with frequent conflicts with innocent Citizens. Discuss the truth of this assertion based on Meja Mwangi’s Incident in the Park. (20 marks).
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NINEMA -VRENIKA PATHER- SOUTH AFRICA ABOUT THE AUTHOR VRENIKA PATHER Vrenika Pather is mainly known for her acting prowess since she started her career as an actress at the age of eighteen. The Indian lady of South African origin has also written a few short stories, one of them being Ninema. Her stories mainly tell the life that many Indian ladies live and their every day’s encounters. Points to guide interpretation Tough life of a market vendor: Rising early Poor meals Poor/lack of proper grooming Dealing with different customers Caste and relationships. Sexual harassment/immorality. Need to remain principled and focused.
CHARACTERS Ninema She is one of the market gardeners who serves as the main character in the story. She is focused, ambitious, organised and strong-willed. Her admirable trait is seen in how fond the other ladies are of her A comprehensive and detailed guide to a silent song and other stories and how many of her customers remain loyal.
MR CHINRAN He is a white man who is a loyal customer of Ninema. He admires Ninema, but both know that their relationship is prohibited since they are from different castes. While Mr Chinran is a wealthy lawyer from a Brahmin caste, Ninema is a poor girl from a low caste. He supports Ninema's business by buying more than enough herbs from her.
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her way home. He pinches her erect nipple and laughs loudly before extending some invitation for Ninema to follow him. Ninema does not take this abuse lying down. She utilises the only weapon she has — her chumpal, that protect the soles of her feet and her whole self. She hits the man repeatedly with her sandals as the other women cheer her on. The man is too shocked to react and thus ends up being beaten by Ninema until he whimpers. Feeling satisfied, Ninema continues with her journey home. She goes back to the poor condition she left in the morning. She safely keeps her sandals under the kitchen table before washing her face and feet with cold water, just like she had done in the morning. She takes a rest that leads her to a dream of a better tomorrow. The story ends with hopeful/optimistic Ninema, who dreams of having a home for herself, hot water and a kitchen inside the house.
QUESTIONS Compare and contrast Ninema and other lady marketers What is ironic about Mrs Singh's behaviour? Ninema is a likeable and admirable character. Do you agree? Give evidence from the story. How effectively has Vrenika Pather used description in the story?
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EPISODIC ANALYSIS OF KEY ISSUES
Living conditions of Ninema - Pg13 and 16 Il. Ninema's skill of trade - Pg 14- Ill. Journey home - Pg 16 Several issues are addressed in these episodes: She only wears her sandals when going to the market. The kind of meals she takes points to the poor life she takes a few sips of tea she brought with her Page 14 (breakfast) Some sandwiches that she packed from home are her only meal for lunch Page 15. Time is limited for her — she only affords a weekly shower on Saturday after boiling water on the open fire Page Dealing with different kinds of customers Mr Chinran admires her and can almost be said to be in love with her. 'The ladies teased her, saying he was in love with her. The writer also tells us that Ninema made Mr Chinran's day. He is almost always the first customer. Ninema handles him wisely and does not let this attraction control her. She does not encourage his infatuation but treats him with respect and appreciation like she does all her loyal customers. (pg14) She also has to handle demanding customers such as Mrs Singh, who though rich, will always bargain to lower the prices. Ninema shows her masterful skills by firmly and respectively handling her. (pg14) She serves many affluent customers at lunch hour who steadily flow in to get herbs for their evening meals. She pays personal interest to each as she has an ambition of living a better life just like most of these customers. (pg15) Time limitation allows her to consult with her doctor - Dr Seedat, only when he comes to buy herbs from her. The two talk about Ninema's mother's illness showing that Ninema is equally concerned about her mother. She can entice a new customer by offering an extra bunch of mint for free. (pg15) This generosity makes the customer happy, thus promising to always shop with her.
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Her focus is further seen where while other lady hawkers chat amiably with each other as they work, Ninema rarely talks back since she has no time to waste (pg14).
Sexual assault/harassment The writer points out the sexual harassment faced by many women in society. The encounter between Ninema and the stranger on her way home shows how women suffer sexual abuse even in public places. The man approaching Ninema grins lasciviously at her before extending his arm to pinch her erect nipple. As if this is not enough, he extends an invitation to Ninema — "If you liked that follow me." (Pg16). episode satirises men who assume women are sex objects to be mishandled.
Ninema's reaction to the abuse is unexpected. The man is shocked when Ninema follows him and hits him repeatedly with her Chumpal. She gives him 'a few extra hits on behalf of all the women.' (Pg 6) This shows that many women have been victims of sexual abuse but end up not fighting back. Ninema thus portrays a courageous personality as she fights for herself and even for the helpless women who had been or would-be victims of such abuse.
NB The story "Ninema' is a story of hope. Ninema has hope that her life will change at some point. As the story ends, Ninema dreams of the home that will be hers someday soon: The house will have hot water too, and the kitchen will be on the inside. She will also have her large garden to grow herbs and some fruits for herself(pg16).
QUESTIONS To succeed in business, one must have the necessary skills to handle customers. Using Ninema in Vrenikas Pather's 'Ninema' support this. "Hard work and determination pays", Using illustrations from Ninema show the validity of this statement. Women traders experience challenges in their lives. Show how Ninema deals with these challenges. Ninema is an admirable character. Support from the story Ninema.
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SILENT SONG -LEONARD KIBERA - KENYAABOUT THE AUTHOR
Leonard Kibera is a Kenyan novelist and short story writer. Kibera was born in Kabete, Kenya, attended high school at Embu and studied at the University of California and Stanford University. He taught at the University of Zambia and at Kenyatta University, Kenya, from 1976 until his death. His first publication was a book of short stories, Potent Ash (1968), which he wrote with his brother, Samuel Kahiga. The book explores the guilt, betrayal, and failure of the Mau Mau. Several of the stories have been anthologized, especially The Spider's Web, which points an accusing finger at Kenya's elite for the state of Kenya since independence. His only novel, Voices in the Dark (1970), uses dark humour to question why most Mau Mau soldiers who fought for independence were forgotten and left to beg and die along the roadside. Kibera has also written several articles of literary criticism.
EPISODES Mbane's life of misery in the streets as a lame, blind beggar. (p17 - 19). Mbane's lonely self-versus the bubbly world around him. (p18 - 19). Mbane's nostalgia. (p18). Mbane's brother, Ezekiel, rescues him. (p19 20).
SYNOPSIS
A Silent Song by Leonard Kibera is a story about Mbane, a young, paralyzed, blind city street beggar. He lives in .......................
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Silent Songs Guide SPLE S1
Course: Education
University: Kaimosi Friends University College
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