You must think I am thoughtless - NSC English FAL - Question 1 - 2022 - Paper 2
Question 1
You must think I am thoughtless. But you will pardon me if I ask you first, why did she come to Johannesburg?
Kumalo, though disturbed by this question, answered ob... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:You must think I am thoughtless - NSC English FAL - Question 1 - 2022 - Paper 2
Step 1
1.1.1 What is Kumalo’s reason for coming to Johannesburg?
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Answer
Kumalo's reason for coming to Johannesburg is to search for his husband who was recruited for the mines. She has been anxiously waiting for his return, but after the time was up, he failed to come back home. The emotional turmoil is evident as she expresses uncertainty about his fate—whether he is dead or has married another woman.
Step 2
1.1.2 What does Msimangu do for Stephen Kumalo?
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Msimangu finds a room for Stephen at Mrs. Lithebe’s house, assists him in his quest to find Absalom, prays for him and with him, and accompanies him when he goes in search of Absalom's pregnant girlfriend.
Step 3
1.1.3(a) What is Msimangu’s tone when discussing Gertrude?
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Msimangu's tone is grave and serious as he subtly makes Stephen aware of Gertrude's immoral lifestyle, indicating concern for her well-being.
Step 4
1.1.3(b) What does Msimangu imply about Gertrude’s way of living?
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Msimangu implies that Gertrude leads an immoral way of living, which is a source of concern for him and highlights the distressing circumstances in which Stephen finds himself.
Step 5
1.1.4 Why does Gertrude not find her husband?
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Gertrude goes to Johannesburg to find her husband, but instead discovers that he has not returned home and that she is left without any knowledge of his whereabouts or state, ultimately leading her to the realization of having many husbands.
Step 6
1.1.5 How is Gertrude depicted morally?
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Gertrude is depicted as immoral; in the context of the text, she is characterized as a prostitute engaging in behavior that is regarded as socially unacceptable.
Step 7
1.1.6 Discuss the theme of pain and suffering in the extract.
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The theme of pain and suffering is evident in several characters' experiences. For instance, James Jarvis suffers immensely when his son is killed, mourning the loss profoundly. Margaret Jarvis faces immense pain as she grieves the death of her husband. Additionally, when Absalom is hanged, both Stephen and Mrs. Kumalo endure tremendous heartache, showcasing the collective suffering in their lives.
