Question

how are the themes of \we wear the mask\ and \a man said to the universe\ similar?

both show how humans can be helpless in the face of external forces.

both state that large, powerful forces such as society are illusions.

both illustrate the environments indifference to humankind.

both demonstrate why people must hide their suffering in order to survive.

Explanation:

"We Wear the Mask" by Dunbar explores hiding true feelings to navigate societal pressures (an external force). "A Man Said to the Universe" by Crane shows the universe’s indifference to human existence (another external force). Both highlight human helplessness against such forces. Option B is wrong because they don’t call forces illusions. Option C only fits the Crane poem, not Dunbar’s. Option D only fits Dunbar’s poem about hiding suffering, not Crane’s.

Answer:

A. Both show how humans can be helpless in the face of external forces.