Summary and Analysis of "Pray to Masks" by Leopold Sedar Senghor
Introduction
- Poet: Leopold Sedar Senghor
- Born in Senegal, 1906 - 2001
- Studied in France, developed the idea of negritude
- President of Senegal in 1960
- Considered a symbol of peace or neo-colonialist
Context of the Poem
- Written in 1945, pre-Senegal independence
- Poem addresses ancestors as masks
Poem Summary
- Theme: Prayer addressing ancestors (masks)
- Imagery: Africa as connected to Europe like a fetus to a mother
- Hope for Future: Severing colonial ties for a prosperous African identity
Close Reading and Analysis
Lines 1-5: Addressing Ancestors
- Masks: Symbols of culture and heritage
- Apostrophe: Direct address to masks (ancestors)
- Respect: Acknowledgement of each mask's color
Lines 6-10: Spiritual Connection
- Lion-headed Ancestor: Symbol of bravery and strength
- Purity: Ancestors purify the spiritual realm
- Prayer: Personal and sincere, spoken in silence
Lines 11-15: Colonialism and Future
- Despotism: End of tyranny, colonialism
- Europe-Africa Connection: Simile comparing their decline
- Hope: New Africa post-colonialism
Lines 16-21: Rebirth and Identity
- Rhetorical Questions: Challenge and hope for new generation
- Cultural Rejuvenation: Return of traditional values
- Oppression: Derogatory terms used by colonialists
- Empowerment: Dance as a symbol of strength and resilience
Themes
- Oppression and discrimination
- Ancestral reverence
- Desire for freedom and new beginnings
- Balancing Western influences with traditions
Tone
- Oppression, suffering, and hope
Conclusion
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This analysis summarizes and provides insight into the themes, tone, and symbolism present in Senghor's "Pray to Masks," reflecting on the historical context and cultural identity in a post-colonial Africa. The rhetorical questions and imagery throughout the poem depict a transition from oppression to hope and empowerment.