In Piano And Drums The Piano Stands For
Chinua Achebe's "In Piano and Drums" is a poem that is a commentary on the clash between African and European cultures. The poem is a reflection on the way traditional African culture has been disrupted by the influence of European culture, and the piano serves as a symbol of that disruption.
The Piano Represents Europe
The piano is a European instrument, so it represents European culture. In the poem, the piano is described as "cold" and "monstrous". This suggests that the piano is not a natural part of African culture, and its presence is disruptive and even threatening.
The Drums Represent Africa
The drums, on the other hand, represent African culture. They are described as "talking drums" that "beat out" a message. This suggests that African culture is more communicative and social than European culture.
The Clash of Cultures
The clash between the piano and the drums represents the clash between European and African cultures. The poem suggests that the African culture is being threatened by European culture. The piano is described as "screaming" and "snatching" the African people away from their own culture.
The poem suggests that this clash of cultures is not just about the piano and the drums, but about a larger conflict between tradition and modernity. The poem ends with the speaker feeling lost and confused, caught between two worlds.
The Importance of Culture
Through its use of symbolism, "In Piano and Drums" highlights the importance of cultural identity. The poem suggests that when people lose touch with their own culture, they become lost and confused. This is why the speaker feels so lost at the end of the poem. He has been caught between two worlds, and has lost touch with both.
The poem also suggests that cultural identity is something that can be lost, and that it is important to preserve it. This is why the clash between European and African culture is so significant. The poem suggests that African culture is in danger of being lost, and that something needs to be done to preserve it.
Conclusion
"In Piano and Drums" is a powerful commentary on the clash between African and European cultures. Through its use of symbolism, the poem highlights the importance of cultural identity, and shows how cultural identity can be lost. It is a reminder that we need to preserve our own cultures, and that we need to respect the cultures of others.
