How does Head make the love story of Makhaya and Paulina so compelling? Support your answer with details from the novel.

Mark scheme

Marking points from the official mark scheme (May/June 2010). The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.

1. [25] The relationship between Makhaya and Paulina is fascinating because they are two very strong and independent characters.
2. [25] Makhaya is mysterious.
3. [25] We know nothing much about his past except that it has not apparently been good ('the terrors of rape, murder and bloodshed in a city slum'); he has a great deal of bitterness and resentment in him though he is trying to put his life to a useful purpose.
4. [25] Paulina too has a good deal of 'baggage' ('she had travelled a longer way too, on the road of life') but she is ambitious and passionate.
5. [25] She makes a dramatic first impression when she comes to the village as she is nothing like the other women.
6. [25] She is immediately attracted to Makhaya but he is slow to respond and for a long time keeps his feelings to himself.
7. [25] The episode of her son finally brings them together and there is every indication that the relationship will be a rewarding one.
8. [25] Candidates will take their own line but should focus on the ups and downs of the relationship rather than on merely giving character sketches.
9. [25] Refer to the band descriptors in arriving at your mark.