Question

In ‘The Ball Poem’, Berryman explores the themes of loss, growing up, and transformation. Mandela also experienced loss of freedom and suffering along with his countrymen during his growing years on the basis of his race and colour.
Compare and contrast the commonality of themes in both the texts.
(The Ball Poem and Nelson Mandela – Long Walk to Freedom)

Hint:

To compare texts effectively, link their core themes and contrast their scope—personal vs. societal.

Answer 1

Both “The Ball Poem” by John Berryman and Nelson Mandela’s autobiography “Long Walk to Freedom” explore profound themes of loss, growth, and transformation, but they do so in different contexts and scales.
In “The Ball Poem,” the theme of loss is portrayed through the simple yet poignant incident of a young boy losing his ball, symbolizing the inevitable losses we face as we grow up.
The poem focuses on personal, emotional loss and the painful but necessary process of accepting change and moving forward.
It highlights the universal experience of growing up, where loss becomes a catalyst for maturity and self-understanding.
Similarly, Nelson Mandela’s “Long Walk to Freedom” reflects on the loss of freedom and suffering endured during apartheid due to racial discrimination.
Mandela’s growth involves his evolution from a young man into a resilient leader who transforms his pain and struggle into a powerful movement for justice.
His journey signifies collective transformation, emphasizing social and political change alongside personal resilience.
While “The Ball Poem” centers on individual loss and coming-of-age, Mandela’s narrative addresses broader societal loss and the fight for liberation.
Both texts underscore that loss, whether personal or collective, can lead to profound transformation and strength.
In essence, they share the common theme that suffering and adversity are integral to growth and the journey toward a new beginning.
Thus, these works connect through their exploration of loss as a transformative experience but contrast in their scale—personal in the poem and political in Mandela’s autobiography.