JAMB UTME - Literature In English - 2023

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The theme of this excerpt is **the oppression of women**. In the excerpt, the women are described as singing in the forlorn fields about their lives. The songs they sing are about how they ploughed the terrain of their landscape for memories of lyrics lost in the vast void of time. This suggests that their lives have been filled with hardship and struggle. The lyrics lost in time symbolize the lost stories and experiences of these women due to their oppression. The mention of servitude cuffing the ankles of their soul and dereliction decapitating the epic of their lives further emphasize the theme of oppression. This language evokes a sense of bondage and powerlessness. The oppression is likely a result of societal structures and systems that have limited the freedom and agency of these women. Therefore, based on the description of the women's experiences and the imagery used, **the theme of this excerpt is the oppression of women**.

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The answer to this question is **metonymy**. Metonymy is a figure of speech where a word or phrase is used to represent something else that it is closely associated with. In the poem "Many years on wheels," the phrase "wheels" is used to represent the occupation or job of the government driver. "Wheels" is closely associated with the driver because it is an essential tool and symbol of their profession. The reference to "wheels" as a metonymy helps to emphasize and encapsulate the driver's identity and experience. It communicates the idea that the driver has spent many years working in their profession, using their vehicle as a means of livelihood and service to the government. It is important to note that metonymy differs from personification, climax, and synecdoche. - Personification is the attribution of human characteristics to non-human objects, so it does not accurately fit the context of the poem. - Climax refers to the highest or most intense point of a story or event, which is not applicable to the given line. - Synecdoche is a figure of speech where a part is used to represent a whole or vice versa. While "wheels" can be seen as a synecdoche in a broader context, in this specific line it is being used metonymically. Therefore, the correct answer is metonymy.

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When an object is invested with a meaning beyond its immediate reference, it becomes a symbol. A symbol is a representation of something else, often an abstract concept or idea. It goes beyond its literal meaning and carries a deeper significance. Symbols can be objects, actions, or even words that evoke a particular meaning or feeling. They are powerful tools used in literature, art, and communication to convey complex ideas in a more accessible and impactful way. Symbols allow us to communicate and understand concepts that may be difficult to express directly. They add depth and richness to our understanding of the world and can evoke strong emotions and associations.

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A trilogy is a sequence of three plays, stories, or books that are usually connected and tell a larger, overall story. It can be written by the same author or have related authors. The important point about a trilogy is that it consists of three parts or pieces that are meant to be read or seen together as a whole. So, in summary, a trilogy is a set of three interconnected plays, stories, or books.

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Parallelism is a literary device that uses the same grammatical structure in all parts of a sentence. In the passage, the speaker asks a series of questions that follow the same structure, which is a clear example of parallelism. Onomatopoeia refers to words that imitate the natural sounds of a thing. Metaphor is a figure of speech that makes an implicit, implied, or hidden comparison between two things that are unrelated, but share some common characteristics. Simile is a figure of speech that makes a comparison, showing similarities between two different things.

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Lineation refers to the arrangement of lines in verse form. In poetry, lines are grouped together to form stanzas and each line plays a crucial role in the overall structure and flow of the poem. Each line serves as a unit of rhythm and contributes to the overall meaning and aesthetic of the poem. Lineation helps to create a visual and rhythmic pattern, guiding the reader's interpretation and understanding of the poem. It is important to note that lineation is not related to tracing family descent of people in verse.

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A limerick is a type of poem that is known for its humorous and playful nature. It consists of five lines and follows a specific rhyme scheme, which is AABBA. This means that the first, second, and fifth lines rhyme with each other, while the third and fourth lines have a different rhyme. In addition to its rhyme scheme, a limerick also typically includes a stinging or surprising climax at the end of the poem. This can be a punchline or a clever twist that adds to the humor of the poem. Unlike other forms of poetry that may be more formal and elaborate, limericks are known for their simplicity and straightforward style. They often use straightforward language, making them easy to understand and enjoy. So, to summarize, a limerick is a short, humorous poem that consists of five lines with a specific rhyme scheme and a clever, funny twist at the end.

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A metrical pause occurring in the middle of a line in a poem is called a caesura. - **Caesura** is a punctuation-like break in the rhythm of a poem that creates a pause, typically in the middle of a line. - It is used to add emphasis, create a rhythmic pattern, or give the reader a moment to reflect. - Unlike punctuation marks, which break the flow of words, a caesura is a more subtle pause that is created through the use of meter and rhythm. - **Tetrametre** refers to a line of poetry containing four metrical feet, while **rhythm** refers to the pattern of stressed and unstressed syllables in a poem. - **Assonance** refers to the repetition of vowel sounds in nearby words or lines of poetry.

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A Government Driver on His Retirement is a poem of thirty-three lines divided into six stanzas. Stanzas 1, 2, 4 and 5 have four lines each while Stanzas 3 and 6 have eight and nine lines respectively.

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The tone of the poet in the poem "Oily Tears" can be described as **optimistic**. The poet expresses a sense of hope and assurance that the tears and sorrow that someone is experiencing will eventually be stopped. The use of the word "swear" implies a strong commitment to this belief. Despite the initial description of "depressed face" and "tears", the poet aims to convey a sense of positivity and optimism for the future.

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The value of the comparison is always achieved in the end e.g My mum is a sister, my sister is a mum.

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The tone of this poem is serious. The poem discusses the departure of virtuous individuals and how their friends react to their passing. The language used, such as "whisper to their souls" and "sad friends," conveys a sense of solemnity and seriousness. The poem also explores the idea of forbidding mourning, suggesting that there is a deeper understanding and appreciation for the departure of virtuous individuals. Overall, the tone of the poem is focused and reflective, which contributes to its serious tone.

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The image set in the lines above is of discomfort and likely destruction. The comparison of the storm turning around like a dog trying to settle itself on a rug and the people being like fleas complaining in his hair suggests that the rainstorm is causing inconvenience and disturbance. The mention of the storm being halfway out to sea and turning around implies that it is unpredictable and not easily settled, which further adds to the feeling of discomfort. The comparison to fleas also suggests that the people are small in comparison to the destructive power of the storm. Overall, the image portrays a sense of unease and the potential for harm or destruction.

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The effect of the trees sighing in this verse is to indicate that the bird is carefree. The phrase "the trade winds soft through the sighing trees" suggests that the bird is in a peaceful and serene environment where the trees are gently rustling and making soft sounds. This creates an atmosphere of tranquility and freedom for the bird. The sighing of the trees also symbolizes a sense of contentment and harmony in nature. Overall, this imagery portrays the bird as being unconstrained and able to fully enjoy its freedom.

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The use of the word 'crown' in this context is a good example of synecdoche, a figure of speech in which a part is made to represent the whole or vice versa. Here, 'crown' is used to represent power or leadership, which is a part of the whole concept of being a king or ruler.

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The tone of the passage above is **derisive**. In the passage, the writer is making fun of the way some people write their application letters. They mention the flowery language and excessive formality used in the closing of the letter. The use of phrases like "if you are kind enough to accommodate this humble application" and "I shall do my utmost best to render you the greatest services" is being mocked. This suggests that the writer is mocking or ridiculing the practice of using grand, exaggerated language in an application letter. Therefore, the tone of the passage is derisive.

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The narrative style in which the hero tells his own story directly is called first-person. In first-person narrative, the protagonist or hero of the story is the one who is narrating the events, and they usually use pronouns like "I," "me," and "my" to refer to themselves. This perspective allows the reader to see the story through the eyes and experiences of the hero, providing a more intimate and personal connection with the protagonist. Thus, the hero's direct involvement in telling the story gives it a first-person narrative style.

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An extended fictional narrative which is realistic is known as a novel.
A novel is a long work of fiction that tells a story in great detail and depth. It typically has a complex plot, well-developed characters, and explores various themes and ideas. Unlike a short story, which is shorter and focuses on a single event or theme, a novel provides a more extensive exploration of its subject matter.
While diaries can also convey narratives, they are typically personal accounts of a person's experiences and do not follow a traditional story structure. On the other hand, a novella is a shorter work of fiction that is longer than a short story but shorter than a novel. Novellas often explore a single theme or idea in depth. However, for an extended fictional narrative with a realistic setting and a detailed exploration of characters and themes, a novel is the most suitable option.

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Soyinka's "The Lion and the Jewel" is culturally set primarily through its use of dance and songs.

In the play, dance and songs are integral parts of the Yoruba culture and are frequently employed by the characters to express their emotions, convey messages, and celebrate significant events. These cultural elements provide a vivid depiction of the rich traditions and customs of the Yoruba people.

The characters in the play often engage in traditional dance performances, such as the "ewu" dance. These dances are not only entertaining but also serve as a way to showcase the cultural heritage and values of the Yoruba people. The rhythmic movements and musical accompaniment create a vibrant atmosphere that immerses the audience in the cultural setting.

Additionally, songs are used extensively throughout the play to express various emotions, tell stories, and convey moral lessons. The characters sing traditional folk songs, chants, and war cries, which contribute to the cultural authenticity of the setting.

By incorporating dance and songs into the narrative, Soyinka effectively captures the essence of Yoruba culture and helps the audience understand and appreciate the unique customs and traditions of the characters. The use of dance and songs enhances the cultural backdrop of the play and immerses the audience in the vibrant world of the Yoruba people.

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The process of creating a character and giving them specific personality traits is called characterization. Characterization is a crucial aspect of storytelling, whether it be in books, movies, or plays. It involves the development and portrayal of a character's traits, beliefs, emotions, and actions.
To create a character, an author or creator has to make deliberate choices about the character's physical appearance, background, and personality. These choices help to shape the character's identity and make them more relatable and engaging to the audience.
Once the character is established, the process of characterization continues through the character's actions, dialogue, thoughts, and interactions with other characters. These elements reveal more about the character's motivations, values, and attitudes.
Characterization can be achieved in several ways. These include:
- Direct characterization: This is when the author or creator explicitly states or describes the character's traits, motivations, or background. For example, they may say, "She was a kind-hearted person who always put others before herself."
- Indirect characterization: This is when the character's traits are revealed through their actions, speech, or thoughts. The audience has to infer the character's personality based on their behavior. For example, if a character frequently acts selfishly and only cares about their own needs, it implies that they have a self-centered personality.
- Character's relationships: The way a character interacts and forms relationships with other characters in the story can also provide insight into their personality. For example, if a character is constantly kind and supportive to others, it shows that they have a compassionate nature.
Through characterization, the audience can develop a deeper understanding of the character's motivations, beliefs, and attitudes. This helps to create a well-rounded and engaging story as the audience becomes invested in the characters and their journey.

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The sides of a stage are called **the wings**. This is because they are typically located on either side of the main performance area, just like the wings of a bird extend from its body. The wings provide space for performers, props, and equipment to be concealed and stored until they are needed on stage. They also serve as entrances and exits for actors during a performance, allowing them to make their entrances and exits discreetly. In summary, the wings of a stage are the areas on either side of the main stage where performers and equipment are organized and concealed before and during a performance.

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A formal dignified speech or writing praising a person or thing for past or present deeds is called a eulogy. A eulogy is typically delivered at a funeral or memorial service to honor and remember the deceased. It is a way to acknowledge their life, achievements, and impact on others. Eulogies are meant to be respectful and heartfelt tributes, highlighting the positive aspects of the person's life and their accomplishments. It is a way for friends and family to offer their condolences and remember the person who has passed away.

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The writing convention in which the events in a narrative are scrambled as they come to the writer's mind without any attempt to arrange them in an orderly sequence is called "stream of consciousness".
Stream of consciousness is a literary technique that aims to depict the continuous flow of thoughts, feelings, memories, and associations that pass through a character's mind. It is like a window into the character's inner thoughts and perceptions.
In this style of writing, there is no chronological order or logical structure. Instead, the narrative jumps from one thought or impression to another, often without clear transitions. This technique attempts to mimic the unpredictable and often messy nature of human thought processes.
Stream of consciousness writing allows readers to experience a character's thoughts and emotions in a more direct and intimate way. It provides insight into their psychology, their internal conflicts, and their unique perception of the world.
So, in summary, stream of consciousness is a writing convention that presents a jumbled and unorganized depiction of a character's thoughts and experiences, capturing the chaotic and spontaneous nature of human consciousness.

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The dominant device in the excerpt from 'The Journey of the Magi' is synecdoche. Synecdoche is a figure of speech in which a part is made to represent the whole or vice versa. In this case, 'night-fires going out' and 'lack of shelters' are used to represent the overall hardships and difficulties of the journey. The device is not paradox, metaphor, or simile, as there is no contradiction, comparison, or likeness being expressed.

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A novel that features spiritual apparitions as major characters is typically classified as a Gothic novel. Gothic literature is a genre that originated in the 18th century and often includes supernatural elements, such as ghosts, monsters, and other eerie occurrences. In Gothic novels, spiritual apparitions play significant roles in influencing the plot and creating a sense of mystery and suspense. These apparitions can be depicted as haunting or supernatural entities that interact with the human characters, usually with a lingering sense of terror or foreboding. They often symbolize unresolved conflicts, inner fears, or the consequences of past actions. Gothic novels aim to evoke strong emotions in readers, such as fear, horror, and fascination. By introducing spiritual apparitions as major characters, authors create an atmosphere of the supernatural and supernatural occurrences, heightening the tension and suspense in the narrative. These apparitions serve as catalysts for the central conflicts and themes of the story, enriching the overall reading experience. In summary, a novel that features spiritual apparitions as major characters is most likely classified as a Gothic novel, as this genre specifically incorporates supernatural elements and creates an atmosphere of mystery and suspense.

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The phrase 'fruit with firm flesh' is an example of alliteration. Alliteration is a literary device where the first consonant sounds in several closely connected words are the same.

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The excerpt from "The Good Morrow" evokes the use of **visual imagery**. Visual imagery refers to the use of vivid and descriptive language that appeals to our sense of sight. In the excerpt, the speaker describes seeing a beauty that they desired and obtained, but it was only a dream of the person they are addressing. This creates a mental image in the reader's mind, allowing them to imagine the contrast between the reality and the dreamlike nature of the beauty. The use of visual imagery helps to engage the reader's imagination and enhance the emotional impact of the poem.

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The speaker in the excerpt above is confident. We can infer this because the speaker is advising someone to "be calm" and "regain their composure." These statements suggest that the speaker is composed and confident in their ability to handle the situation.

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A panegyric poem is composed to praise someone or something. It is a form of literary work that specifically focuses on highlighting the positive qualities, achievements, or virtues of a particular individual, group, or object. The purpose of a panegyric poem is to express admiration, honor, and appreciation. It often uses powerful and persuasive language to extol the subject and convey a sense of reverence. In this type of poem, the writer aims to celebrate and glorify the qualities or accomplishments of the subject, presenting them in the best possible light. So, to summarize, a panegyric poem is created to praise and uplift its subject.

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An **allegory** is a story that uses symbolic characters or events to convey a deeper, hidden meaning. It typically has both literal and figurative interpretations. The literal meaning is the surface-level plot or events that happen in the story, while the figurative meaning represents a deeper message, moral, or theme. For example, imagine a story about talking animals who live in a forest and face various challenges. On the surface, it may seem like a simple tale about animal adventures. However, when we analyze the story more closely, we discover that the animals symbolize different human characteristics or represent political or social ideas. The story then becomes a figurative representation, using the animal characters and events as a metaphor for something else. In contrast, a **novella** is a shorter fictional narrative that has a fully developed plot, characters, and theme, but does not have the extensive length of a novel. Novellas usually focus on a particular event or period in a character's life and offer a compact and focused story. A **fable** is a short tale, often involving animals, that conveys a moral lesson or truth. Fables are usually written in a straightforward manner, with animals acting as characters who represent specific qualities or virtues. The story aims to teach a lesson or provide guidance through its moral. An **epistle** is a type of letter or written message that usually contains personal thoughts, reflections, or advice. It is typically addressed to a specific person or group of people and can cover a wide range of topics. Epistles are commonly found in religious texts or historical literature. They may contain moral teachings or serve as a means of communication between individuals or communities. In summary, an **allegory** is a story with both literal and figurative meanings, while a **novella** is a shorter fictional narrative with a fully developed plot. A **fable** is a short tale that teaches a moral lesson, and an **epistle** is a type of letter or written message usually containing personal thoughts or advice.

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The moment of recognition of truth when ignorance gives way to knowledge is called **Anagnorisis**. Anagnorisis is a Greek word that can be translated as "recognition" or "discovery". In literature and drama, it refers to a significant moment in a character's story when they suddenly understand their true identity, the nature of their situation, or the consequences of their actions. This moment of realization often comes as a surprise to the character and can have a profound impact on the development of the plot. It allows the character to gain a deeper understanding of themselves, their relationships, or the world around them. This recognition can be a turning point in the story, leading to important decisions or changes in the character's behavior. So, in summary, anagnorisis is the moment in which a character in a story or play realizes the truth and gains knowledge that was previously unknown to them.

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The combination of two or more metaphors is called mixed metaphor.
Metaphors are figures of speech that use language to compare two unrelated things, usually for the purpose of creating vivid descriptions or conveying a particular meaning. When multiple metaphors are brought together in a single sentence or phrase, it creates a mixed metaphor.
Imagine if someone said, "He's as sharp as a knife, but also a shining star." In this example, the person is using two different metaphors: one comparing someone to a sharp knife and another comparing them to a shining star. However, when these two metaphors are combined, it creates a mixed metaphor.
Mixed metaphors can sometimes create confusion or make the intended meaning unclear. It is generally more effective to stick to one metaphor at a time to ensure clarity and coherence in communication.

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The passage reveals that Jibunoh symbolizes **lawlessness**. This is evident from the various actions and behavior mentioned about Jibunoh. He was hated by all his neighbors and deserted by his relations, indicating that he did not follow societal norms or adhere to proper conduct. He was the first and only person to beat a policeman, showing a lack of respect for authority and breaking the law. Additionally, he had ten cases instituted against him for stealing or violating the rights of others, further highlighting his disregard for the law and the rights of others. The passage also mentions that Jibunoh had no regard for decency or normal conduct, and that no lover of peace or order could be his friend. Finally, his death elicited jubilation instead of mourning, indicating that his presence and actions were not seen as positive or beneficial by those around him. Overall, Jibunoh's character represents lawlessness in the passage.

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The phrase 'To fly flags of joy' contains two figures of speech: metaphor and alliteration. 'To fly flags' is a metaphor for expressing joy, while 'flags of joy' is an example of alliteration due to the repetition of the 'f' sound.

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The subject matter of a literary work refers to the main topic or idea that the work explores. It is the overarching theme or concept that the author wants to convey through their writing. While all the options mentioned (theme, plot, structure, and setting) are important elements in a literary work, the subject matter specifically refers to the deeper meaning or message that the author wants to communicate to the reader.
Theme: The theme of a literary work is the central idea or message that the author is trying to convey. It is the underlying meaning or moral of the story. For example, the theme of a novel could be love, friendship, or the struggle between good and evil.
Plot: The plot of a literary work refers to the sequence of events and actions that occur in the story. It includes the exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution. While the plot helps to develop the subject matter, it is not the actual subject matter itself.
Structure: The structure of a literary work refers to how the story is organized and presented. It includes elements such as the narrative style, point of view, and use of flashbacks or foreshadowing. The structure can enhance the delivery of the subject matter, but it is not the subject matter in itself.
Setting: The setting of a literary work refers to the time, place, and environment in which the story takes place. While the setting can contribute to the overall mood and tone of the work, it is not the subject matter. The subject matter may be explored within a specific setting, but it goes beyond just the physical or temporal backdrop of the story.
In summary, while all the options mentioned play a role in a literary work, the subject matter is the central topic or idea that the author intends to convey to the reader. It is the deeper meaning or message that the work explores.

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A tragic hero, according to the Aristotelian precept, must be a noble character with hubris. In simpler terms, a tragic hero is a high-ranking and respected person who possesses a fatal flaw or excessive pride. This flaw or hubris leads to their downfall or tragic ending in the story. It is important to note that a tragic hero does not necessarily have to be a king or a central character after whom the play is named. The key characteristic is their noble status and the presence of hubris. Their downfall is often a result of their own actions or decisions, making their story both tragic and relatable. Through their downfall, the audience learns profound life lessons and experiences catharsis, a release of emotions.

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The poetic device used in the expression 'for the caged bird sings of freedom' is irony. Irony is a figure of speech in which the intended meaning is the opposite of the literal meaning. In this case, the irony lies in the fact that the caged bird, despite being confined, sings of freedom.

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The line "The sun used to smile in my hut" is an example of personification.
Personification is a figure of speech where human qualities or characteristics are given to non-human objects or ideas. In this line, the sun is being described as smiling, which is a human quality.
The other options - - Apostrophe: Apostrophe is a figure of speech in which someone absent, dead, or non-human is addressed as if they were present and able to reply. This is not the case in the given line, as the sun is not being directly addressed. - Rhetorical Question: A rhetorical question is a question asked for effect or to make a point, rather than to get an answer. The given line is not a question, so it does not fit this category. - Zeugma: Zeugma is a figure of speech in which a word is used in two different ways in the same sentence. The given line does not have such usage.
Therefore, the correct answer is personification.

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The plot of the novel is linear; Events in the novel succeed into one another in one to one correspondence right from the point to exposition to climax to anti-climax to denouement.

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The given lines, "I had not taken the first step in knowledge, I had not learnt to let go with the hands" is an example of Repetition. Repetition refers to the act of repeating certain words or phrases within a sentence or paragraph for emphasis or to create a specific effect. In this case, the repetition of the phrase "I had not" emphasizes the speaker's lack of progress or action in acquiring knowledge and learning. This repetition helps to convey the speaker's frustration or regret over their inaction.