Which ballad convention does Dudley Randall use in “Ballad of Birmingham”?
using an innocent questioner and a wise respondent
using a celebration to emphasize values
using a song to discuss fate
using prose instead of verse format
To determine which ballad convention Dudley Randall uses in "Ballad of Birmingham," we need to analyze the poem's structure and content.
1. Innocent questioner and wise respondent: This convention refers to a common feature in ballads where a naive individual asks questions, and a knowledgeable character offers answers or advice. In "Ballad of Birmingham," we do not see an innocent questioner seeking guidance from a wise respondent.
2. Celebration to emphasize values: Ballads often employ celebrations or festivities to highlight particular values or ideas. While "Ballad of Birmingham" does touch upon the theme of protecting loved ones and the value of innocence, it does not utilize celebration as a central convention.
3. Song to discuss fate: Ballads frequently use songs to address and contemplate matters of destiny or fate. In "Ballad of Birmingham," there is no direct mention of songs discussing fate.
4. Prose instead of verse format: Ballads are typically written in verse, following a specific rhyme and meter pattern. However, "Ballad of Birmingham" is written in prose, resembling a narrative form rather than a traditional ballad structure.
Therefore, based on the analysis above, the correct answer is that Dudley Randall does not use any of the mentioned ballad conventions in "Ballad of Birmingham" as per the given options. Instead, the poem takes a more narrative and prose-like approach to convey its message.
If you read the poem, you'll easily find the answer.
http://www.poetryfoundation.org/poem/175900
If you're still unsure, read the first paragraph of this article.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/16th_Street_Baptist_Church_bombing