The Skater of Ghost Lake

Question

by William Rose Benet

(1) Ghost Lake’s a dark lake, a deep lake and cold:

(2) Ice black as ebony, frostily scrolled;

(3) Far in its shadows a faint sound whirs;

(4) Steep stand the sentineled deep, dark firs.

(5) A brisk sound, a swift sound, a ring-tinkle-ring;

(6) Flit-flit,--a shadow with a stoop and a swing,

(7) Flies from the shadow through the crackling cold.

(8) Ghost Lake’s a deep lake, a dark lake and old!

(9) Leaning and leaning with a stride and a stride,

(10) hands locked behind him, scarf blowing wide,

(11) Jeremy Randall skates, skates late,

(12) Star for a candle, moon for a mate.

"The Skater of Ghost Lake", by William Rose Benét

Question
Use lines 1 to 12 to answer the question.

What is the effect of the figurative language in these lines?

(1 point)
Responses

The simile emphasizes the darkness of the lake.
The simile emphasizes the darkness of the lake.

The personification highlights how quickly Jeremy skates.
The personification highlights how quickly Jeremy skates.

The onomatopoeia helps the reader imagine the soft sounds of the wind.
The onomatopoeia helps the reader imagine the soft sounds of the wind.

The simile helps the reader understand how Jeremy looks as he skates.
The simile helps the reader understand how Jeremy looks as he skates.

Answer 1

The effect of the figurative language in these lines primarily lies in the use of personification and onomatopoeia, which help create a vivid atmosphere and imagery.

Among the options given, the statement "The onomatopoeia helps the reader imagine the soft sounds of the wind" is the most accurate. The use of sound words like "ring-tinkle-ring" and "flit-flit" creates an auditory image that enhances the movement and ambiance of the scene.

However, it is worth mentioning that there is no direct simile present in lines 1 to 12. Therefore, if the focus is purely on the most effective use of figurative language as highlighted, the onomatopoeia response is the best choice.