11. The interplay between language and silence is central to this text. Why does the slave masters consistently attack the language of the enslaved Africans? What is the importance
of language in this text? What function does language play for the enslaved people? Why
is the Devil so determined to ensure that the enslaved Africans do not speak their own
languages?
12. Why do the enslaved
Africans resort to silence as a result of this assault? Do both Esi
and Pinky refuse to speak? Why is this silence important?
13. The "un-naming" and renaming of enslaved Africans, played a significant role in
dehumanizing and stripping them of their individuality. What examples are present in this
text?

The homegoing by Yaa Gyasi