Here's a breakdown of the key elements:
* Simple, direct language: Clark avoids ornate language and complex metaphors. He uses plain, everyday words to describe the stark reality of the Abiku's fate. This reinforces the poem's sense of immediacy and urgency.
* Repetition and refrain: The repeated phrase "And they said" serves as a refrain, emphasizing the cyclical nature of the Abiku's death and rebirth. This repetition underscores the futility and frustration of the situation.
* Imagery of death and rebirth: Words like "death," "grave," "reborn," and "again" are used to depict the Abiku's repeated cycles of life and death. The imagery is often stark and visceral, emphasizing the physical and emotional pain of the situation.
* Use of traditional Yoruba names and customs: Clark incorporates Yoruba names and customs, such as the names of deities and the practice of naming children after the dead, giving the poem a strong sense of cultural context.
* Use of the second person: The poem addresses the Abiku directly, using the pronoun "you." This creates a sense of intimacy and immediacy, as if the speaker is directly addressing the Abiku.
Overall, the diction of "Abiku" is characterized by its directness, simplicity, and emotional intensity. It reflects the stark reality of the Abiku's fate and the pain and frustration experienced by the community.