Question

the following text is from anne spencers 1922 poem \translation.\ we trekked into a far country, my friend and i. our deeper content was never spoken, but each knew all the other said. he told me how calm his soul was laid by the lack of anvil and strife. \the wooing kestrel,\ i said, \mutes his mating - note to please the harmony of this sweet silence.\ which choice best describes the function of the reference to \anvil and strife\ in the text as a whole? a) it emphasizes the way that nature provides a contrast to the feelings of the speaker and her friend. b) it illustrates how the speaker and her friend understand each others feelings without having to talk about them. c) it represents a strong contrast to the speakers friends current experience of tranquility. d) it symbolizes the speakers friends view that meaningful work and social engagement are core components of a fulfilling life.

Explanation:

• The phrase "anvil and strife" implies noise and conflict.
• The friend's soul is "calm" and "laid" by the "lack of anvil and strife", showing a contrast between the friend's current tranquility and the implied chaos of "anvil and strife".
• Option A: There is no indication that nature is providing a contrast to the speaker and friend's feelings. The focus is on the friend's state.
• Option B: The reference to "anvil and strife" is not about understanding each other without talking.
• Option D: There is no mention of meaningful work and social engagement as core components of a fulfilling life.

Answer:

C. It represents a strong contrast to the speaker’s friend’s current experience of tranquility.