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SECTION C: SHORT STORIES
In this section, questions have been set on the following stories:
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
THE COFFEE-CART GIRL by Es’kia Mphahlele
THE LUNCHEON, by W Somerset Maugham
Choose ONE of the short stories and answer the set questions.
QUESTION 11 (ESSAY QUESTION)
THE COFFEE-CART GIRL - Es’kia Mphahlele
In the story, The Coffee-Cart Girl, Ruben (China) is devastated when he loses
Zodwa. He has brought this upon himself.
Do you agree with this statement? Discuss your views in an essay.
In your essay you may consider the following ideas, among others:



The feelings and friendship which develop between Ruben and Zodwa
Ruben’s anger and jealousy resulting from Naidoo’s gift and visits
Ruben’s attempts to reconcile with Zodwa
Length: 250 – 300 words
[35]
OR
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MEMORANDUM
QUESTION 11
NOTE: Use the 35-mark assessment rubric to assess candidates’ essays.
Accept alternative views which are relevant and well-substantiated.
The following points may be included in the essay, among others:

The feelings which develop between Ruben and Zodwa:
o Ruben rescues Zodwa during the strike – helps her and her cart to safety.
o Ruben loses his job as a result of the strike
o Ruben visits Zodwa at the coffee-cart and feelings develop between them,
which they do not acknowledge to each other.
o Zodwa feeds Ruben.
o Ruben gets a job and buys Zodwa a gift at Naidoo’s shop.

Ruben’s anger and jealousy resulting from Naidoo’s gift and visits:
o Naidoo starts visiting Zodwa’s stall.
o Naidoo gives Zodwa a ring.
o Ruben sees the ring and is angry and jealous.
o Ruben threatens Zodwa with a knife.

Ruben’s attempts to reconcile with Zodwa:
o Ruben regrets threatening Zodwa and asks for forgiveness.
o Zodwa leaves – no longer allowed to trade in the city.
o Ruben is devastated when returns and finds Zodwa has left.
o Ruben sits, waiting for Zodwa – hoping she will return
o Blames himself – promises to make up and confess about his wicked past.
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Ruben is a wicked man who deserves this loss – doesn’t deserve a good woman
OR
There are redeeming features in Ruben’s character – he has genuinely changed/
learnt his lesson – reader feels a sense of pity
[35]