Your teacher introduces the concept of Transcendentalism, a literary movement that believes truth exists beyond reason and experience. Then she asks you to determine the author's purpose for this quote by Henry David Thoreau:

"If a man does not keep pace with his companions, perhaps it is because he hears a different drummer. Let him step to the music which he hears, however measured or far away."

Which BEST determines the author's purpose?
Responses
A Thoreau's quote expresses the significance of a life filled with music.Thoreau's quote expresses the significance of a life filled with music.
B Thoreau's quote expresses that individualism is of paramount importance.Thoreau's quote expresses that individualism is of paramount importance.
C Thoreau's quote expresses that companionship is of paramount importance.Thoreau's quote expresses that companionship is of paramount importance.
D Thoreau's quote expresses the connection between companionship and competition.

1 answer

The best choice that determines the author's purpose for the quote by Henry David Thoreau is:

B Thoreau's quote expresses that individualism is of paramount importance.

This selection captures Thoreau's emphasis on the value of following one's own path and being true to oneself, even if it means not conforming to societal expectations or the pace of peers.