polo

Chronological structure

The events are described in the chronological order of the race, as though the events have some sense of order and control. This is ironic as the entire race seems to be disorganised and chaotic.

Colloquial language

Levine refers to her drivers as “lads” and uses colloquialisms such as “punters” and “massive pile up.” This makes the passage relatable to Western readers.

Short sentences

The abrupt ending “The race was over” contrasts with the previous more complex sentences, making the end of the race an anti-climax.

Humour

The humorous tone of the passage is meant to entertain and to highlight the cultural differences that Levine observes.

Imagery

Levine employs cartoon-like imagery, suggested by the reference to the cartoon “Wacky Races,” to imply she cannot believe what she is seeing. “In front of a cloud of fumes and dust” and “dive into the ditch” evoke the action in chaotic, mad-cap cartoons.

Juxtaposition

While Levine finds the donkey race chaotic and possibly dangerous, the local people find it completely normal. This may be a warning not to impose Western ideals and expectations onto different cultures.

Onomatopoeia

The writer employs onomatopoeia in “horns tooting, bells ringing” to emphasise the chaos and excitement.

Tone

The tone of the passage could be considered judgemental, as the author compares what she considers to be normal to the sense of lawlessness she finds in this event. This implies that this culture is perceived to be uncivilised in comparison.

Rule of three

Rule of three, or triads, are used in “voices were raised, fists were out and tempers rising” to build the tension and atmosphere, which seems to be getting more out of control.

Personification

The vehicles following the donkeys are “roaring up in their wake,” suggesting a fierce pursuit.