Question

in passage 1, how does the characterization of the boys friendship in the first paragraph 1 add a layer of meaning to their overall relationship?
the first paragraph characterizes the boys friendship as one that is mostly based on shared interests, which then contrasts with their career decisions that follow.
the first paragraph characterizes the boys friendship as one that is strong and close, which then contrasts with their subsequent time apart and lack of communication.
the first paragraph characterizes the boys friendship as one that is convenient since they both attend the same school, which supports why they grew apart in college.
the first paragraph characterizes the boys friendship as one that is rocky and unpredictable, which provides a foundation for the readers to explain why they lost touch.

Explanation:

The first paragraph characterizes the boys' friendship as strong and close. This creates a contrast with their subsequent time apart and lack of communication. A strong and close friendship at the start makes the later separation more poignant. The other options are less likely. Option 1 about shared interests and career decisions is not as directly relevant to the friendship's characterization in the first paragraph. Option 3 about convenience due to same - school is a narrow view and not the main characterization. Option 4 about a rocky friendship is not supported as the first paragraph likely portrays a positive friendship start.

Answer:

The first paragraph characterizes the boys' friendship as one that is strong and close, which then contrasts with their subsequent time apart and lack of communication.