Gce Model Questions Vol1 2025 Literature In English Question 5

The following is an original excerpt from the play *The River's Whisper*: *Scene: A dimly lit riverside at dusk. The water murmurs softly. ELARA, a young fisherwoman, stands clutching a net. JORAN, the village elder, approaches, his lantern casting long shadows.* ELARA: (voice trembling) The river has turned sour, Joran. The fish are gone, and the tide pulls at my hope. JORAN: (placing a hand on her shoulder) The river remembers its own grief, child. It does not betray us; we have forgotten how to listen. ELARA: (looking away) Then what shall we do? Let the village starve? JORAN: (softly) We must return the river's song. Bring the old drum to the water's edge and beat the rhythm of the currents. *Stage directions: A faint glow appears on the water, as if the river itself is listening.* Answer the following: (a) Identify the central conflict in the scene and discuss how the playwright uses dialogue and stage directions to develop it. (b) Evaluate the effectiveness of the dramatic technique of irony employed in the interaction between Elara and Joran. (c) Explain how the setting contributes to the overall mood of the scene.