Question

which example best demonstrates the neoclassical style used in poetry during the age of reason?

1. if ever two were one, then surely we.

if ever man were loved by wife, then thee;
if ever wife was happy in a man,
compare with me ye women if you can.

1. arise, my soul, on wings enrapturd, rise

to praise the monarch of the earth and skies,
whose goodness and beneficence appear
as round its centre moves the rolling year,
or when the morning glows with rosy charms,
or the sun slumbers in the oceans arms.
oh light divine! be a rich portion lent
to guide my soul, and favour my intent.

1. we smile, but, o great christ, our cries

to thee from tortured souls arise
we sing, but oh the clay is vile
beneath our feet, and long the mile;
but let the world dream otherwise,
we wear the mask!

1. i caught a tremendous fish

and held him beside the boat
half out of water, with my hook
fast in a corner of his mouth.
he didnt fight.
he hadnt fought at all.
he hung a grunting weight,
battered and venerable
and homely. here and there

Explanation:

Neoclassical poetry (Age of Reason) emphasizes order, logic, formal structure (like heroic couplets, elevated diction, and adherence to classical forms). The second example ("Arise, my soul...") uses elevated language, structured meter, and themes of praising a monarch (reflecting neoclassical focus on reason, order, and classical ideals of governance/poetic form). Other options: 1 is more personal (romantic/early), 3 has darker, more emotional tones (not neoclassical), 4 is more modernist/experimental.

Answer:

1. Arise, my soul, on wings enraptur'd, rise

To praise the monarch of the earth and skies,
Whose goodness and beneficence appear
As round its centre moves the rolling year,
Or when the morning glows with rosy charms,
Or the sun slumbers in the ocean's arms.
Or light divine be a rich portion lent
To guide my soul, and favour my intent.