Colourful, complete poem analysis. Compiled by using previous test/ exam papers for 2025, and:
Essay question
In the poem ‘Prayer to Masks’, the poet/speaker addresses the masks before moving on to expand the message of the poem.
Give a brief account of the way the speaker addresses the mask...
Léopold Sédar Senghor, a Senegalese poet and politician, was a key figure in the movement for
African independence and the concept of Negritude, a shared cultural identity for Africans. Senghor
became the first president of Senegal in 1960, implementing policies to develop the nation and
promote education.
Senghor's legacy is complex, with some praising his efforts to promote unity and others criticizing
his role in maintaining ties with France.
In the poem “Prayer to Masks”, the poet
Prayer = An address to the appeals to his ancestors for guidance and
spirits via the masks. This is
inspiration in re-establishing African
how the poet/speaker is
talking to the ancestors culture and proud traditions after a lengthy
period of colonisation by European powers.
The speaker addresses the masks directly
as they represent the ancestors.
, Title 2
The title implies a ‘thank you’ to those who
have been wearing the masks and to the The red, black and white Masks
masks themselves for being able to hide represents:
true feelings. In “Prayer to Masks”, the
In “Prayer to the Mask”, masks represent
carved masks collectively represent the
skin color. Reason being, masks cover our
culture of the Fathers: “You distil this air of
skin, like our skin covers our flesh. For
eternity in which I breathe the air of my
example, “Black mask, red mask, you
Fathers”. The living is connected to the
white-and-black masks (Senghor, 31).”
past by the masks. It is these masks and
Eventually, a lion mask, which can stand
the glorious culture that represent the
for pride and power, which the story
poet’s appeals in the face of colonialism
explains.
and the death of contemporary Africa and
Europe.
THE CENTRAL IDEA
TONE & MOOD
Honouring Our Ancestors Strengthens Us
Tone
Senghor uses “Prayer to the Masks” to
• praise • respect • reverence i
look back at his ancestors and history.
Mood The poem concludes with a renewed
sense of vigour, signifying that honouring
• hopeful/optimistic • meditative the past helps us in the present.
FORM/STRUCTURE Intention
The poem is structured with • To create an awareness of the effects of colonialism in Africa.
no breaks for stanzas. The • To explore the culture of West Africa
line lengths are varied. The • To build a sense of pride in one’s African heritage and identity
short sentences emphasise The appeal to the ancestral spirits to help the oppressed Africans
the speaker’s intent. The overcome the present state of subjugation and hopelessness.
speaker, at first, addresses
the masks and then expands
the message of the poem.
The (rhetorical) questions Type and form - The poem is composed in a single stanza.
are answered by the speaker
at the end of the poem. The ❖ Each sentence in the poem presents a different idea as
direct speech allows the
the poet/speaker directly addresses the masks.
reader to “eavesdrop” on the
conversation the speaker is ❖ Long lines contrast with the short lines, this encourages
having with the masks. The moments of pause and reflection while reading the poem.
speaker uses the 1st person ❖ The poem is conversational in its address of the different
pronoun “you” to engage the masks
reader.
, 3
Summary
This poem is a powerful reflection on
African identity and the enduring
spirit of its people. The speaker
directly addresses African masks, a
symbol of rich cultural heritage,
highlighting the importance of
preserving and celebrating their
traditions. The poem emphasizes the
strength and resilience of Africans,
who have faced immense
challenges, including colonialism
and its lasting effects. The speaker
believes that Africans hold the key to restoring hope and meaning to a world that has
lost its way.
The poem explores the complex relationship between Africa and Europe, asserting that
Africa does not need to conform to European standards or ideals. It acknowledges the
pain and consequences of colonialism, but ultimately expresses a hopeful message.
The speaker recognizes the hardships and prejudice faced by Africans, but emphasizes
their inherent strength and ability to overcome adversity.
Despite the challenges, the poem concludes with a powerful message of optimism. The
speaker believes that Africans possess the power to create a new future, one filled with
beauty, prosperity, and a renewed sense of hope. This message resonates with the
enduring spirit of the African people, who have faced countless obstacles yet continue
to strive for a better tomorrow.
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