, PLEASE USE THIS DOCUMENT AS A GUIDE TO ANSWER YOUR ASSIGNMENT
Section A:
Reflection on Poetry – “Memory” by Christopher van Wyk
Paragraph 1:
Identify the poem and poet you have chosen. Briefly explain why you chose this poem and
what your first reaction to it was. Did anything about the poem surprise or confuse you?
The poem I have chosen is “Memory” by Christopher van Wyk. I decided to select this poem
because it focuses on childhood experiences and how those memories remain significant later in life.
I found this theme relatable, as it shows how ordinary moments can carry deeper meaning when
reflected upon. My initial reaction to the poem was a mixture of interest and sadness. At first, the
poem appeared simple and straightforward, but as I read it more carefully, I realised that it contains
deeper emotional layers. What surprised me most was how the poet transforms everyday
experiences into something meaningful and thought-provoking. I was also slightly confused by the
way the speaker’s voice shifts between what seems like a child’s perspective and an adult’s
reflection. However, after rereading the poem, I understood that this shift is intentional and shows
how memory can change over time. It made me realise that memories are not always fixed, but can
be reinterpreted as we grow older.
Paragraph 2:
Choose two poetic devices discussed in Unit 2. Quote at least two lines or phrases from the
poem and explain how these devices helped you better understand the poem’s message or
emotional impact. Remember to give page references for where these poetic devices appear in
Unit 2.
Two poetic devices discussed in Unit 2 of TL501 that helped me understand the poem better are
imagery and tone. The poet makes strong use of imagery in phrases such as “the smell of paraffin”
Section A:
Reflection on Poetry – “Memory” by Christopher van Wyk
Paragraph 1:
Identify the poem and poet you have chosen. Briefly explain why you chose this poem and
what your first reaction to it was. Did anything about the poem surprise or confuse you?
The poem I have chosen is “Memory” by Christopher van Wyk. I decided to select this poem
because it focuses on childhood experiences and how those memories remain significant later in life.
I found this theme relatable, as it shows how ordinary moments can carry deeper meaning when
reflected upon. My initial reaction to the poem was a mixture of interest and sadness. At first, the
poem appeared simple and straightforward, but as I read it more carefully, I realised that it contains
deeper emotional layers. What surprised me most was how the poet transforms everyday
experiences into something meaningful and thought-provoking. I was also slightly confused by the
way the speaker’s voice shifts between what seems like a child’s perspective and an adult’s
reflection. However, after rereading the poem, I understood that this shift is intentional and shows
how memory can change over time. It made me realise that memories are not always fixed, but can
be reinterpreted as we grow older.
Paragraph 2:
Choose two poetic devices discussed in Unit 2. Quote at least two lines or phrases from the
poem and explain how these devices helped you better understand the poem’s message or
emotional impact. Remember to give page references for where these poetic devices appear in
Unit 2.
Two poetic devices discussed in Unit 2 of TL501 that helped me understand the poem better are
imagery and tone. The poet makes strong use of imagery in phrases such as “the smell of paraffin”
