AFRICAN POETRY
Discuss contrast as a poetic device in “In the navel of the soul.”
Explanation
The introductory reference to Pascal's quotation, sets the pattern of contrast in the poem, that between instinct and mind and by extension, between tradition and modern science. Contrast is used to bring out the two views on how pregnancy is detected by different cultures as represented by their medical practitioners.
The poet's diction clearly brings out the contrast. The traditional midwives are referred to as "midwives of the spirit" and are contrasted with the "experts" who rely on scientific methods and tests for pregnancy. The "midwives of the spirit" in their simple way of testing can "feel" the presence of life on the navel.
The Ironic tone of the poem heightens the contrast. The poet sarcastically notes that the "experts" through their urine test record negative, while the midwives "feel a foetal throb" "on their finger upon our navel".
The "quizzical glare" of the "experts" indicates that even though they may think that they are superior to traditional midwives, it is they that are very much confused. The poet concludes by contrasting the Western attitude to the traditionalist's and affirming the determination of the traditionalist not to allow the African way of life to be stifled or downgraded.