This was a popular question as the figure of speech is a familiar one. However, most candidates were unable to relate the usage of this figure of speech to the theme of the poem. They were also not able to bring out instances of the usage of contrast from the poem.
Candidates were expected to discuss the following:

• Identification of the theme of song as way to express the feelings of anguish and joy as well as keep the memory of the dead alive.
• Definition/Explanation of contrast

• Contrast between the permanence of time and brevity of life:

• Contrast between the song of old and the poet’s attempt to rescue what is left: time has not succeeded in obliterating the memory of the women. The stripped lyrics of their song have been captured for postering by the poet.

Candidates’ efforts were commendable.