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A Child’s Plea by Catherine Obianuju Acholonu
Where’s my palm tree,
Mama?
Where’s my palm tree?
Phased out
Says Mama
Practice obsolete.
The maternity latrine
Took care of your
Afterbirth.
But Mama
A tiny hole
By a tiny palm tree
Was all I needed.
Why did you deny me
Tomorrow. . .
Today is no use
Without tomorrow.
Mama
General Introduction
"A Child's Plea" by Catherine Obianuju Acholonu is a poignant poem that explores the innocence and simplicity of a child's desires juxtaposed against the practicalities and harsh realities of life. Through the child's plea for a palm tree, the poet delves into themes of tradition, modernity, and the loss of cultural practices.
Title
The title, "A Child's Plea," immediately sets the tone for the poem, suggesting a heartfelt request from a young and innocent perspective.
Themes
1. Innocence and Loss
The child's plea for a palm tree symbolizes innocence and a connection to nature. The theme of loss is evident as the child's traditional request is denied, highlighting the erosion of cultural practices.
"Where’s my palm tree, Mama?"
2. Tradition vs. Modernity
The conflict between tradition and modernity is central to the poem. The mother's dismissal of the palm tree as obsolete reflects a clash between old and new ways of life.
"Practice obsolete."
3. Desire for Continuity
The child's plea for a palm tree represents a desire for continuity and a connection to the future. The child sees the palm tree as a symbol of hope and tomorrow.
"Today is no use / Without tomorrow."
4. Nostalgia and Longing
The child's longing for a simple pleasure, like a tiny palm tree, evokes a sense of nostalgia for a simpler time and highlights the importance of small joys.
"But Mama / A tiny hole / By a tiny palm tree / Was all I needed."
5. Parental Authority and Disappointment
The poem subtly explores the impact of parental decisions on a child's emotions. The child's disappointment at the denial of the palm tree reflects the power dynamics within the family.
"Why did you deny me"
Literary Devices
1. Symbolism
The palm tree symbolizes tradition, innocence, and the child's connection to nature.
2. Repetition
The repetition of "Where's my palm tree, Mama?" emphasizes the child's longing and frustration.
3. Imagery
Vivid imagery is used to evoke the child's desire, such as "A tiny hole / By a tiny palm tree."
4. Irony
The irony of the child's simple request being denied for practical reasons adds depth to the poem.
5. Alliteration
The alliteration in "Phased out / Says Mama" creates a rhythmic effect and emphasizes the dismissal of tradition.
6. Enjambment
Enjambment is used to create a flowing rhythm and connect the child's thoughts seamlessly.
Language and Mood
The language is simple yet evocative, capturing the child's innocence and disappointment. The mood shifts from curiosity and longing to disappointment and resignation, reflecting the child's emotional journey.
Context
The poem can be interpreted in the context of cultural changes and the erosion of traditional practices. It reflects the experiences of many children who long for simple pleasures that may no longer be valued or understood by their parents.
Conclusion
"A Child's Plea" by Catherine Obianuju Acholonu is a powerful poem that explores themes of innocence, tradition, and the impact of modernity on cultural practices. Through the child's simple request for a palm tree, the poet conveys a profound message about the loss of connection to nature and tradition in a changing world.
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