IGCSE descriptive essay | 2008 May-Jun | For many years you have heard exciting and humorous tales



Question

You are advised to write between 350 and 500 words on the following topic:

For many years you have heard exciting and humorous tales about an elderly aunt/uncle in your family. Someone gives you a diary that once belonged to this relative, who is now dead. Write two diary entries, each describing a memorable moment in this person’s life.

Model Essay

Diary Entry 1: March 14, 1952

What an extraordinary day! Today, I found myself in the most unlikely of adventures. It began as an ordinary Friday morning in the sleepy town of Willowbrook. The sun was shining brightly, and the birds were chirping their usual melodies. I was making my way to the local market to buy some fresh produce when I stumbled upon a peculiar scene that would soon become the talk of the town.

As I rounded the corner by Mrs. Whitley’s bakery, I noticed a commotion near Mr. Jenkins’ old barn. Curious, I approached the gathering crowd, only to find Mr. Jenkins himself, red-faced and gesticulating wildly. It turns out his prized pig, Daisy, had somehow managed to escape her pen and was now causing mayhem in the heart of Willowbrook.

Daisy, a rather large and surprisingly agile pig, had already knocked over several market stalls and was now charging down Main Street, much to the horror and amusement of onlookers. Without thinking, I joined the pursuit, my heart pounding with excitement. We chased Daisy past the post office, through the town square, and into the park. She was quick and cunning, darting between trees and bushes, but we were determined.

After what felt like an eternity, we cornered Daisy by the duck pond. With the help of a few brave souls, we managed to coax her into a makeshift pen made from garden fences and ropes. The relief was palpable, and Mr. Jenkins, though breathless, was immensely grateful. To thank us for our efforts, he invited everyone to a spontaneous barbecue at his farm that evening.

As we sat around the fire, enjoying the delicious food and sharing stories, I couldn’t help but laugh at the absurdity of it all. Daisy, now safely back in her pen, seemed completely unfazed by her grand adventure. It was a day none of us would forget, a day when the quiet town of Willowbrook was turned upside down by an unexpected visitor.

Diary Entry 2: September 22, 1967

Today, I experienced a moment of sheer joy and fulfillment that I will cherish for the rest of my days. After years of hard work and dedication, I finally stood on the stage of the Willowbrook Community Theater, ready to perform in the lead role of our production of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” It was a dream come true, a culmination of countless rehearsals and a deep love for the performing arts.

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The theater was packed with friends, family, and townsfolk, all eager to see the show. The energy in the room was electric, and as the curtains rose, I felt a rush of adrenaline and excitement. Playing the role of Puck, the mischievous fairy, allowed me to explore a side of myself that I rarely showed in everyday life. It was liberating, exhilarating, and profoundly rewarding.

Throughout the performance, I could feel the audience’s reactions, their laughter, their gasps, and their applause. Each scene flowed seamlessly into the next, and my fellow actors and I moved as if we were one, connected by an invisible thread of shared passion and purpose. When we reached the final act, the applause that erupted from the audience was thunderous, echoing off the walls of the small theater and filling my heart with pride and gratitude.

After the show, we gathered backstage, hugging and congratulating each other on a job well done. The camaraderie and mutual respect among the cast and crew were palpable, a testament to the bonds we had forged through our shared endeavor. As I stepped out into the cool night air, still buzzing with the thrill of the performance, I was greeted by my family and friends, their faces beaming with pride and admiration.

It was a night to remember, a night when I felt truly alive and connected to something greater than myself. The experience reaffirmed my belief in the power of art to bring people together, to inspire, and to create lasting memories. As I write these words, I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude for the opportunity to have been a part of something so magical and meaningful. This night will remain etched in my heart as one of the most memorable moments of my life.

Word Count: 711