Question

Discuss the use of symbolism in the
poem "the leader and the led" by Niyi Osundare

Answer 1

Answer:

Symbolism, in a poem, refers to any word, action, person, event or object which represents an abstract idea. It enriches the expression of the poem.

Explanation:

The Leader and the Led is a poem written by Niyi Osundare. It is narrated like a fable. The poem is rich with metaphors, similes, imageries, and symbols. To explain how to select a leader in a democratic system Niyi has used the concept of a jungle and the animals as a metaphor. The intrinsic qualities of the animals are used as similies, that explains the relative strength and weaknesses in the character. The poem is full of imageries and takes the reader into a world of animals, that behave and live like humans. When it comes to the animals that they have to select a leader for the jungle, a tussle for leadership begins. All animals propose their names for leadership, based on their power and strength. In the concluding stanzas of the poem, Forest sage proffers a solution. In the poem, Forest Sage symbolises a wise person who, in a real human democratic system, represents the poet. Unlike words, in any poem, symbols point towards something and transcend the ordinary experience of the reader. After reading the poem what comes first in mind is George Orwell's novel animal farm. It mirrors the political events in Russia in the early 90s and symbolises animals like political figures. The lesson of the poem is that strength alone is not a qualification for leadership. To be a leader, one must be wise, firm and balanced in approach. These are the qualities that are represented by the Forest Sage, a symbol of wisdom; when he offered the solution to the problem of leadership in the jungle.

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