The poem shifts to the modern world. There is a contrast between the silence of the Karoo and the noise of the modern "ysterperd" (iron horse/train) or motorcars. The modern world is rushing by, indifferent to the history of the land.
Though she has passed when the play begins, she remains a symbol of resilience and the "anchor" of traditional values. die laaste karretjiegraf notes in english pdf verified
The transition from a nomadic life to a settled, destitute existence in squatter camps represents the loss of a unique cultural heritage. The poem shifts to the modern world