Question

the first day in the desert felt like the longest day salva had ever lived through. the sun was relentless and eternal. there was neither wisp of cloud nor whiff of breeze for relief. each minute of walking in that arid heat felt like an hour. even breathing became an effort; every breath salva took seemed to drain strength rather than restore it. thorns gored his feet. his lips became cracked and parched. uncle cautioned him to make the water in his gourd last as long as possible. it was the hardest thing salva had ever done, taking only tiny sips when his body cried out for huge gulps of thirst - quenching, life - giving water. from linda sue park, a long walk to water. copyright 2010 by linda sue park. what is the meaning of relentless as used in the passage? options: comforting and healing, dark and gloomy, harsh and unforgiving

Explanation:

To determine the meaning of "relentless" in the passage, we analyze the context. The sun is described as having no cloud or breeze for relief, making the heat harsh. "Comforting and healing" is opposite to the harsh heat. "Dark and gloomy" refers to light/atmosphere, not heat intensity. "Harsh and unforgiving" matches the sun's unrelenting, severe heat with no relief.

Answer:

The correct option is: Harsh and unforgiving