Observation

A good number of candidates attempted this question. However, their responses showed that they did not understand the demands of the question. They failed to make references to the poet’s use of diction that elucidates the theme.

The required answer should include the following points:

* Brief explanation of the word ‘diction’.

* Brief statement/explanation of the theme.

* References to items of vocabulary/expressions that elucidates the theme, i.e. words that connote restriction versus words that connote joy.

* Effect of diction on the development of the theme.

* Conclusion – profound thoughts in simple words.

Candidates’ performance in this question was poor.