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 environment’s indifference to humankind.
○ both demonstrate why people must hide their suffering in order to survive.

Explanation:

• In We Wear the Mask, the mask represents the external force (society's expectations) that makes people hide their true feelings (helplessness).
• In A Man Said to the Universe, the universe (external force) is indifferent, showing human helplessness.
• Option B is wrong as both poems don't say these forces are illusions.
• Option C: We Wear the Mask is more about society (not the natural environment) and its indifference.
• Option D: Only We Wear the Mask touches on hiding suffering.

Answer:

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