Question

encompassed in a luminous cloud, of which he was now merely the fiery heart, without material substance, he swung through unthinkable arcs of oscillation, like a vast pendulum. how does bierces syntax contribute to the surreal tone of the passage? a. by avoiding sensory details to create detachment. b. by writing exclusively in passive voice. c. by alternating short, abrupt phrases with longer, descriptive sentences. d. by using only simple sentences for clarity.

Explanation:

The passage uses complex and long - descriptive language rather than simple sentences. It doesn't avoid sensory details as it describes a luminous cloud and a fiery heart. It's not written exclusively in passive voice. The alternation between short phrases like "without material substance" and longer descriptive sentences like "Encompassed in a luminous cloud, of which he was now merely the fiery heart" creates a surreal tone by varying the rhythm and adding an other - worldly feel.

Answer:

c. By alternating short, abrupt phrases with longer, descriptive sentences.