Question

read these lines from \forgetfulness\ by billy collins.

it has floated away down a dark mythological river
whose name begins with an l as far as you can recall,
well on your own way to oblivion where you will join those
who have even forgotten how to swim and how to ride a
bicycle.

which word best describes the tone of the imagery used in these lines?

a. upsetting
b. happy
c. peaceful
d. wishful

Explanation:

Analyze the imagery in the poem

The lines describe something that has "floated away down a dark mythological river" (referencing Lethe, the river of forgetfulness in Greek mythology) toward "oblivion." The imagery of a "dark mythological river" and "oblivion" evokes a sense of loss, fading memory, and the inevitable disappearance of knowledge. This establishes a somber and unsettling atmosphere rather than a happy, peaceful, or wishful one.

Examine the specific details of forgetfulness

The passage describes joining "those who have even forgotten how to swim and how to ride a bicycle." Forgetting fundamental, deeply ingrained physical memories like swimming or riding a bicycle represents a profound and disturbing level of cognitive loss. This reinforces the unsettling nature of the imagery, as it depicts a helpless state of complete erasure.

Evaluate the answer choices

• A. Upsetting: This matches the dark, fading, and helpless imagery of drifting into oblivion and losing basic life skills.
• B. Happy: The imagery of darkness, oblivion, and profound loss of memory is not cheerful or happy.
• C. Peaceful: While drifting on a river can sometimes be peaceful, the context of "oblivion" and losing basic human capabilities makes the tone disturbing rather than serene.
• D. Wishful: There is no expression of desire, hope, or longing in these lines; they describe an ongoing, inevitable process of decay and loss.

Therefore, the tone of the imagery is best described as upsetting.

Answer:

• A. Upsetting (Correct answer)
• B. Happy
• C. Peaceful
• D. Wishful