Question

analyzing the effect of structural elements on tone
why should the world be over-wise,
in counting all our tears and sighs?
nay, let them only see us, while
we wear the mask.
—\we wear the mask,\
paul laurence dunbar
which best describes how the rhyme in the first two lines of this stanza contribute to the tone?
○ it creates a lighthearted tone that contrasts with the words of sadness.
○ it creates a desperate tone that emphasizes \tears\ and \sighs.\
○ it creates an inquisitive tone that conveys the speaker’s curiosity.
○ it creates a forceful tone that supports the speaker’s determination.

Explanation:

The rhyme in the first two lines ("wise" and "sighs") creates a light - hearted, almost sing - song quality. This contrasts with the sad words "tears" and "sighs". The other options are incorrect:

• "Desperate tone" is not created by the rhyme. The rhyme's rhythm is more upbeat.
• There is no indication of curiosity (inquisitive tone) from the rhyme.
• The rhyme does not give a sense of force or determination.

Answer:

It creates a lighthearted tone that contrasts with the words of sadness.