Question

read the second stanza of \some keep the sabbath going to church.\ some keep the sabbath in surplice - i just wear my wings - and instead of tolling the bell, for church, our little sexton - sings. what is the effect of the word \surplice,\ which is a garment worn by the clergy, in this stanza? it reinforces the difference between the natural things the speaker holds dear and the rituals of the church. it reinforces the poets belief that most people feel the need to attend church. it reinforces the poets authority by suggesting that she knows quite a bit about religious rituals. it reinforces the speakers view that great mystery lies at the heart of most religious rituals.

Explanation:

The word "surplice" refers to a religious garment worn by clergy, representing formal church rituals. The speaker contrasts this with their own "Wings" (symbolizing natural/spiritual freedom) and the sexton's singing instead of church bells. This highlights the difference between institutional religious practices and the speaker’s personal, natural way of keeping the Sabbath.

Answer:

It reinforces the difference between the natural things the speaker holds dear and the rituals of the church.