Question

review the passage. the personification is shown in bold.
little waterfalls splashed on the stones. five - fingered ferns hung over the water and dropped spray from their fingertips. pepe rode half over his saddle, dangling one leg loosely. he picked a bay leaf from a tree beside the way and put it into his mouth for a moment to flavor the dry jerky.
from john steinbeck, the long valley. copyright 1938 by john steinbeck
what is the effect of the personification on the passages meaning or tone?
it creates a peaceful atmosphere.
it creates a lonely atmosphere.

Explanation:

Personification gives human traits to non - human elements. Here, ferns are described as having "fingertips" and "hanging over the water" and "dropping spray". These actions are gentle and evoke a sense of calm. A peaceful atmosphere is created as the scene is described in a serene and non - chaotic way. There is no indication of loneliness as the description is more about the gentle interaction of the ferns (in a personified way) with the water.

Answer:

It creates a peaceful atmosphere.