In this extract, the writer attempts to present failure as something positive - Edexcel - GCSE English Language - Question 6 - 2020 - Paper 1

The writer begins with a strong positive focus on success, framing the narrative around achievements that underscore the notion of winning. However, this approach can appear paradoxical, as it contrasts with the core theme of failure being discussed.

In the extract, the writer emphasizes the significance of winning as paramount, which inadvertently casts a shadow on the positive aspects of failure. Despite stating that 'He was a worthy victor, tougher and as well as faster than the rest of us,' the acknowledgement of failure becomes overshadowed by the success of others.

Furthermore, the writer reflects on their own experience of disappointment, highlighting the conflict between passion and the pain of loss—'Many things could have gone wrong before even reaching the final'. This presents a complex relationship between the writer's aspirations and the outcomes.

The narrative intensifies as the writer shares personal sentiments relating to their belief in their potential for victory, marking moments of reckoning and deep introspection. The emotional dichotomy is evident, as they express gratitude for what they learned from their failures, concluding: 'All week I had seen the interplay of success and failure, without any bruises between myself and success or failure.' This reflection serves to illustrate the writer's growth and the valuable lessons derived from experiencing failure.

To underscore success in presenting failure positively, the writer shows that they are able to extract constructive insights from their hardships, concluding with a hopeful outlook: 'The Helsinki Olympic Games were a turning point in my life.' This serves to effectively turn what initially looks like defeat into an opportunity for growth, affirming the position that failure can ultimately foster positive outcomes when viewed through an enlightened perspective.