Question

review the passage. the paradox is shown in bold.

these articles have another disadvantage arising from the scurry in which they were written; they are too long-winded and elaborate. one of the great disadvantages of hurry is that it takes such a long time. if i have to start for high-gate this day week, i may perhaps go the shortest way. if i have to start this minute, i shall almost certainly go the longest. in these essays (as i read them over) i feel frightfully annoyed with myself for not getting to the point more quickly.

from g. k. chesterton, \the case for the ephemeral,\ in all things considered

what is the effect of the paradox on the passages meaning or tone?

it contributes to a mock-serious tone.

it creates an anxious tone.

it suggests an arrogant tone.

Explanation:

A paradox is a statement that seems self - contradictory but may hold truth. Here, the idea that "one of the great disadvantages of hurry is that it takes such a long time" is a paradox. The author uses it in a somewhat humorous yet pointed way. The overall tone of the passage is not truly serious as it's about the author's own annoyance with his writing style. The paradox is presented in a way that is not meant to cause real anxiety (there's no indication of fear or unease beyond the author's self - annoyance) and there's no sign of arrogance (no over - the - top self - praise). Instead, it's a light - hearted yet critical look at the situation, which fits a mock - serious tone.

Answer:

It contributes to a mock - serious tone.