Question

the path to home
1 there’s the mother at the doorway, and the children at the gate,
2 and the little parlor windows with the curtains white and straight
3 there are shaggy asters blooming in the bed that lines the fence,
4 and the simplest of the blossoms seems of mighty consequence.
5 oh, there isn’t any mansion underneath the starry dome
6 that can rest a weary pilgrim like the little place called home
7 men have sought for gold and silver, men have dreamed at night of fame,
8 in the heat of youth they’ve struggled for achievement’s honored name;
9 but the selfish crowns are tinsel, and their shining jewels
question 21
in line 7, what does \gold and silver\ symbolize?
□ ancient coins
□ shiny objects
□ fleeting wealth
□ simple joys

Explanation:

The poem contrasts the pursuit of gold/silver (wealth) with the comfort of home. Lines like "the little place called home" and later "selfish crowns are tinsel" suggest wealth from gold/silver is temporary (fleeting), while home offers lasting comfort. "Ancient coins" is too literal, "shiny objects" is superficial, and "simple joys" refers to home, not gold/silver. So "gold and silver" symbolize fleeting wealth.

Answer:

C. fleeting wealth