"Cold" is a poignant poem by Dennis Brutus, a South African poet known for his activism against apartheid. Here's a basic analysis of the poem: 1. Theme: This poem centers on themes of suffering, resilience, and the human will to survive. The "Cold" in this poem can be understood not only as a physical condition but also as an allegorical representation of hardship or emotional frigidity, perhaps reflective of the cold and cruel realities of apartheid that Brutus himself experienced. 2. Structure and Style: "Cold" is written in free verse, which means it doesn't adhere to traditional poetic forms. Its relaxed structure gives Brutus freedom to express his thoughts as they flow, mirroring the wandering mind in the chilling cold. 3. Imagery: Brutus uses vivid imagery to express the brutality of the cold. He describes the penetrating chill in a way that makes readers understand the physical pain of it. 4. Language and Tone: Brutus' choice of language is straightforward but potent, bringing out the grueling effect of the cold. The tone throughout the poem is quite somber, evoking a sense of despair and desolation. 5. Metaphor and Symbolism: The recurrent "cold" serves as a metaphor for adversity, possibly reflecting the harsh, cruel, and inhumane treatment during apartheid. 6. Message: Through his personal suffering, Brutus imparts the message of human resilience against intense hardships. Despite the biting cold - torture, in essence - the will to survive prevails. In your more in-depth analysis, you might want to dive deeper into these elements, unpack Brutus' use of specific words or phrases, and connect the poem to the broader socio-political context. Remember to include your personal reflections too; literature analysis isn't just about dissecting the 'what' and 'how' of the poem, but also understanding and communicating the 'why'.