Question

which is one thematic similarity between \a man said to the universe\ and \sympathy\?
both present an individual who fears his environment.
both present an individual trying to prove his existence.
both present an individual who is injured and damaged.
both present an individual challenging an external force.

Explanation:

In "A Man Said to the Universe", the man asserts his existence to the universe. In "Sympathy", the caged bird (representing an individual) is a symbol of one trying to assert its existence (through its song, despite the cage). The other options are incorrect. There's no indication of fear in either (so the first option is wrong). The third option ("injured and damaged") is too literal - the focus is more on existence assertion. The fourth option ("challenging an external force") is not as accurate as the theme of proving existence.

Answer:

Both present an individual trying to prove his existence.