The Skater of Ghost Lake by William Rose Benet Ghost Lake’s a dark lake, a deep lake and cold: Ice black as ebony, frostily scrolled; Far in its shadows a faint sound whirs; Steep stand the sentineled deep, dark firs. A brisk sound, a swift sound, a ring-tinkle-ring; Flit-flit,--a shadow with a stoop and a swing, Flies from the shadow through the crackling cold. Ghost Lake’s a deep lake, a dark lake and old! "The Skater of Ghost Lake", by William Rose Benét Question Use the stanzas to answer the question. Which answer choice correctly explains how the poet’s diction affects the meaning of these stanzas? (1 point) Responses The focus on how old the lake is conveys a sense of mystery and wisdom. The focus on how old the lake is conveys a sense of mystery and wisdom. The description of the cold, frozen lake establishes the setting of the poem. The description of the cold, frozen lake establishes the setting of the poem. The emphasis on the darkness of the lake and the presence of a mysterious shadow make the lake seem dangerous. The emphasis on the darkness of the lake and the presence of a mysterious shadow make the lake seem dangerous. The emphasis on the age of the lake and the description of the dark, steep fir trees shows that the lake is a place of historical importance. The emphasis on the age of the lake and the description of the dark, steep fir trees shows that the lake is a place of historical importance.

1 answer

The correct answer choice is: The emphasis on the darkness of the lake and the presence of a mysterious shadow make the lake seem dangerous.

This response effectively captures how the poet's diction creates an atmosphere that suggests danger and mystery. The repetition of "dark," "deep," and mentions of "shadows" and the "mysterious shadow" contribute to a sense of foreboding and intrigue about Ghost Lake. The tone evoked by these descriptions enhances the chaotic and eerie feeling of the setting, which aligns with the notion of danger.